There is something about big, old trees that leaves me in awe. With their stately, yet contorted architecture, and their weathered bark, they symbolize strength and perseverance. I like to lie beneath them and look up into their canopies – pausing to notice the mosses, ferns, and lichens that adorn them – nature’s finery.
They get me to ponder the history that unfolded beneath them, whether it had been generations of pioneering farm families scratching a livelihood from the surrounding soil, or Native Americans who may have passed by them on their journeys.
They bring me peace.
For that reason, this week’s Footpaths post is a little different – a Reel that features a collection of big trees that we have seen on our outings. Some are species known for their mature size – Sequoia, White Oak, Blue Ash, Tulip-poplar, Silver Maple, Sycamore – while others were included because of their notable size for their species – Shingle Oak, Osage Orange, Walnut, Pecan, Hemlock. In each of the photos you will see me at the base of the tree to give size reference. And the photos are paired with the song “Branching Out” by John Gorka, which has brought a smile to my face for over thirty- five years.
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