The red buckeyes: An act of faith

This story begins seven years ago, with an act of faith. February 20, 2009 “I’m going to plant that red buckeye seed today,” I told Tom. Caught in my voice was that thin blade of iron resolution usually reserved for the worst tasks, like sweeping mounds of wet leaves off the decks. I had put … read more The red buckeyes: An act of faith

Identifying trees, part 1

It’s gray, cloudy, raining like heck. One of those days when you think that the sun itself is science fiction, and that nothing in the world will ever be right again. This is the best time to find a beech tree. Perfect conditions. Drive anywhere, and you’ll see nothing but beech trees. Because right now, they’re the only … read more Identifying trees, part 1

Pretty, and pink, and edible

The air is so warm and sweet, winter must be gone for good. Not just this year, but forever. The birds are singing their little bird hearts out, and the redbuds are bursting with blossoms. Those delicate pink flowers started to show all around Atlanta last week, already. They’re not out yet in North Georgia, but I plan to … read more Pretty, and pink, and edible

Branching out

Winter keeps invading my spirit. I rally and laugh, and then a cold wind knocks me down to burrow under layers of fleece. The singular gift of winter in North Georgia is the lovely lace of bare trees. White oaks, red oaks, maples, poplars, sweet gum, sourwood, their dancing arms and fingers choreographed to some music … read more Branching out