Nine years ago we started this small endeavor by purchasing an acreage that gently slopes east to a creek on our neighbor’s land. Nearly 2500 black walnut trees were planted by the seller along with red cedars and a few species of oaks.
The idea of planting additional trees took root before we had possession of the land. Native Iowa trees from family and friends have been planted each year as well as hundreds of acorns from neighborhood oak trees. We have planted nearly 3000 trees with varying success. Rabbits and deer find young seedlings satisfying, much to our frustration.
Early on, we noted a Kentucky coffeetree as our first “Legacy Tree.” The nut came from our good friend and advisor, David, a state forester. As it now stands over ten feet tall, it has become an important showcase tree at the farm. A pair of catalpas grow next to each other to remind us of departed friends while a pin oak grows nearby for a coworker. Other trees remind us of our friends who are near and far, still with us or gone on.
Reasons may vary for each Legacy Tree that now number about 20 and they can bring a smile or a bit of melancholy as the memories of our friends come to us. I share pictures of the trees from time to time so that the growth can be celebrated by all.
This year we add a new sugar maple in honor of our growing community of wordsmiths at Poets and Storytellers United. A place that has welcomed me and my words and allowed me to share that small corner of our world along with a few odd stories along the way. 😉
This maple could reach 60 feet or more, sheltering nesting birds among its branches and giving people the opportunity to rest under the shade of its broad leaves. This tree is in appreciation for all the writers of the community who are spread across the world as maybe someday, we could sit under the shade and share a verse or two.
It may be small but it can grow along with our words.
Thank you all.
Posted at Poets and Storytellers United: Writers’ Pantry #23: Growing Along with Our Words
