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Grayson, Susan, Anne, Robin |
The exquisite faces of family and friends radiate joy and
contentment from the place where we’ve gathered to enhance a paper birch tree.
It lives on a boulevard in Campbell River, behind the curling rink facing Dogwood
Street.
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Grayson removes trash |
On this light-filled day, young Grayson removes the
discarded trash from the area, while Pat, a dedicated admirer of nature, sits
crossed legged on the earth tugging at invasive plants. Robin, an artist, pours
soil on the exposed roots while Anne, a gardener, detaches several large obstructions
protruding from the ground. I set the picnic table with food and refreshments,
and acrylic paints for later. With dogged determination the crew brings
splendor and magnificence to the once straggly-looking white birch.
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Bonnie gets a makeover |
Several years before, we had adopted and named the tree
Bonnie the Birch. Initially, her solitary
sentinel-like posture called out to us. She looked abandoned and in need of
tender, loving care. It didn’t takes us long to tend to her with nutrients,
fresh soil, compost and a power-drink comprising of natural enhancement
ingredients. Within a few weeks she exuded a glow that gave off an interesting
sparkle during the sun-lit hours. Together, throughout the seasons, we’ve
dedicated ourselves to her well-being.
Today, our visit with this attractive natural being brings
radiance and joy to our hearts. The brightness and warmth from the sunbeams
caress our bodies as we bend and stretch to reach all parts the patient
recipient. Grayson speaks to Bonnie like a friend and tells her that she’ll be
really happy now that we’re looking after her. I imagine she would whinny like
a horse, nuzzle like a dog, or purr like a cat if she had the capacity. I take
her branches waving in the slight breeze to be her thank you to all of us. Our
final touch to the tree’s newest makeover was painting the rocks at her base.
She looks settled, satisfied and attractive. Bonnie and her offspring lovingly
referred to as Bert and Bertha, belong to all of us.
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A tree brings friends together |