Friday, April 23, 2010

Downed tree

Nothing too spectacular about this downed tree in the forest, is there? We noticed this tree while on our hike yesterday, because in looking at the root structure, there doesn't actually seem to be any. Then we remembered that on our trip to Raptor Ridge in December of last year, we had seen this same tree growing right out of the rock. Since I had snapped a picture of it, I'll show you why I took it:
The tree really was growing right out of the rock, with little tendrils of roots holding it from being blown down in the wind. But sometime between December and April, either it grew too large, or a windstorm, or a combination of the two, finally brought the tree down. It seems to have taken the tree to its left as well.

This brought to mind the old saying about being careful where you put down roots: in sand, in soil, or on rock. The tree seems to have been pretty old, had a good life, and finally got to its end. Here in the Pacific Northwest, Smart Guy and I are busy making sure our little baby Bellingham roots are taking hold in fertile ground, hopefully to keep us safe in the buffeting winds of life.

It's been two years since we moved here, and every day that passes makes me more confident in our choice. The intellectual journey at the office I left behind has been replaced with 60-some blogs that I follow, with challenges, ideas, knitting patterns, and life stories you share with me. Thank you.
:-)

16 comments:

  1. That tree was a spectacular site growing out of that rock. But I guess it's days had come to an end. How great that you got before and after pictures of this.
    I'm so happy for you and Smart Guy, that you have happiness in your lives with where you live and each other. I've been lucky enough to visit most of the U.S., but ever since my son moved to the Pacific Northwest and we've been there twice now, it is truly one of the most beautiful places in this country. I love it out there.

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  2. "all good things must come to an end", right? including impressive trees! ;o)

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  3. That tree is really something. I wonder how it even survived as long as it did. It must have had a lot of tenacity and strong willpower. You have obviously made some wise choices in choosing your new roots. It appears to be a beautiful location with many opportunities and it suits you well.

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  4. It is amazing that the tree grew so big in rock. It is neat that you had a picture to go back too. :D

    I've been to Bellingham and it is truly beautiful as is most of the Northwest. You are indeed fortunate to have the opportunity to live there.

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  5. It's always great to go on your walks with your troupe! The tree is fascinating and I'd be able to just sit and stare at it for hours! (I'd have to touch the moss too!)

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  6. And thank you for sharing all of these wonderful nature hikes with us!

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  7. Why doesn't Smart Guy enjoy hiking with you? Seems strange, as he likes to sky dive. But, it's good you are compatible.

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  8. Lovely blog. Still enjoying your stories, DJan!

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  9. I remember that tree. I'm sorry it died, but I know that it will continue to nourish the forest for many years to come. Nothing goes to waste in the natural world.

    Your life has been full and varied in your new home. I'm so glad it was the right choice for these important years.

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  10. So cool that you got before and after pics! And I am very glad that you chose the PNW to put down roots. Things grow well here.

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  11. Very interesting about the tree, I remember when you posted the one with the rock. It is strange the rock didn't take the whole tree. Possible the root system of the tree allowed water to get inside the rock, it could have frozen and broke apart?

    Glad to hear you and Smart Guy are happy with your choice of the PNW, it is a wonderful place. We have moved around so much, separately and together, that is seems strange to put down roots. I like it here but would love to be closer to the coast.

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  12. Im panting right now! It was just only yesterday that I haven't opened my Blogger and I feel that I was left behind!

    Like you DJ, I am also fond of taking pictures of uprooted trees especially the moss covered one, and there you can see all the parasites living with these trees. Amazing isn't it?

    AL

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  13. I remember that picture; was it really that long ago? Oh well, it's neat to see it again. It looks like the tree has simply moved into the next phase of it's purpose...much like we often do. We often mourn the changes, but it's just part of the journey.

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  14. A well written 'emotional' post D-Jan. x
    Yes, you've tried your wings and found that they fly - very well in your case. Now it is time to put down your roots. A lovely thought for you.
    Blessings in abundance today.
    Star

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  15. Heart wrenching to see the tree downed though...

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  16. That tree was some survivor for a number of years..it was beautiful when it was perched on that rock! Better to be perched on a rock than not at all:)

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