Thanks for answering my question so thoughtfully Nick (and to everyone in the comments); I really appreciate it. I think by asking the question I knew what the answer probably should be, but confirming that is good for the soul. The quote is perfect, because I would almost certainly not be able to create something from the wood that outweighs what the tree is today. The idea of strategically taking a limb or two is a great idea and not something that I had considered. She'll live to fight another day.
Hi Nick, Chase and fellow Muleteers ~ My husband and I listened with great interest to Chase’s dilemma and your response, Nick, as well as those in the comments. May we add another suggestion? Perhaps a beautiful photo (we’re thinking Ansel Adams-esque) of the cherished tree, matted and framed (in wood from a branch or two of the old oak)? Duplicate this as many times as there are family members to be gifted with the memory of the tree.
I, too, read “The Overstory” when it first came out ~ Enough time has passed that I remember little of the particulars, but I do remember being incredibly sad. On the flip side, I’m now reading “Where the Deer and the Antelope Play” ~ It certainly has its serious concerns, but oh, do I love the good laughs interspersed within!
Thanks, Nick, for offering this fun and meaningful platform. You and Megan are national treasures!
If it were possible, keep the land for yourself that you might keep it safe. They aren't making any more of it, and someday someone in your family might care for it the way you do. But I understand this world is not kind to those who would keep a heritage.
I have a love for old trees; my own resident King Oak waves to me from beside my pond, and within his realm all of his subjects live under his care - the owl, the possum and the mountian lion...
Let them live. The wood is beautiful, but so much more beautiful is the living tree, the King of Ages in his own bower.
Eric Brown - Dayton Ohio. Let the tree live. Obviously, your father didn't plant it. So find another walnut tree that has fallen and use it instead, understanding that it is related to the one you leave alone. Perhaps in the future the new owners may let you have some pecans. Stopping again in the future will refresh your memories only if you can actually see the tree.
Thanks for answering my question so thoughtfully Nick (and to everyone in the comments); I really appreciate it. I think by asking the question I knew what the answer probably should be, but confirming that is good for the soul. The quote is perfect, because I would almost certainly not be able to create something from the wood that outweighs what the tree is today. The idea of strategically taking a limb or two is a great idea and not something that I had considered. She'll live to fight another day.
Hi Nick, Chase and fellow Muleteers ~ My husband and I listened with great interest to Chase’s dilemma and your response, Nick, as well as those in the comments. May we add another suggestion? Perhaps a beautiful photo (we’re thinking Ansel Adams-esque) of the cherished tree, matted and framed (in wood from a branch or two of the old oak)? Duplicate this as many times as there are family members to be gifted with the memory of the tree.
I, too, read “The Overstory” when it first came out ~ Enough time has passed that I remember little of the particulars, but I do remember being incredibly sad. On the flip side, I’m now reading “Where the Deer and the Antelope Play” ~ It certainly has its serious concerns, but oh, do I love the good laughs interspersed within!
Thanks, Nick, for offering this fun and meaningful platform. You and Megan are national treasures!
Nick. I look forward to Donkey Thoughts! It’s my new Sunday ritual. Thank you. — Marni
If it were possible, keep the land for yourself that you might keep it safe. They aren't making any more of it, and someday someone in your family might care for it the way you do. But I understand this world is not kind to those who would keep a heritage.
I have a love for old trees; my own resident King Oak waves to me from beside my pond, and within his realm all of his subjects live under his care - the owl, the possum and the mountian lion...
Let them live. The wood is beautiful, but so much more beautiful is the living tree, the King of Ages in his own bower.
Eric Brown - Dayton Ohio. Let the tree live. Obviously, your father didn't plant it. So find another walnut tree that has fallen and use it instead, understanding that it is related to the one you leave alone. Perhaps in the future the new owners may let you have some pecans. Stopping again in the future will refresh your memories only if you can actually see the tree.
What a delightful way to start the week. I went to pick up The Overstory and found I already own it :D. Need to read it now, I guess.
"Be still and feel," your beautiful homage to The Overstory sent me diving back into the book.