Red on the hill

Among our prized trees that we planted during 2013 was this red maple that we picked up from one of the big box stores. October is when it turns colors, although this year is a little late.

From 2014

With its deep red leaves to contrast the greens of the valley and drab browns of the grasses on the hill, this tree can be seen from nearly everywhere one can stand on the acreage (provided the walnut trees have lost their leaves.)

Seeing red on the hill is encouraging as it has survived summers of beetle infestations and 20 to 30 below winters. The droughts of 4 of 6 summers didn't help either.

This tree is a survivor.

Picture from this year as it begins to turn colors.

When doubt creeps in, I look at the top of the hill and I can renew my thoughts that we are doing the right thing. This will give us seeds in a few years and help supply our next plantings. A single renewable resource that has the potential of tens of thousands of additional trees.

About 10 yards up the hill is The Stranded Tree and I will celebrate when branches from these two trees will meet. (If I am still alive, of course.)