Late last week, when Millie and I walked out to let Chris know dinner was nearly ready, I happened to notice blossoms twinkling at the edge of the woods. Curious, I walked closer……. Could it be?
Oh….it is! It is a small apple tree, likely planted by a bird, covered in pink buds and blossoms and buzzing with bees. This little tree was once well hidden in a small thicket, but due to our clearing and logging it can now be easily seen and admired. Over the years the apple has leaned as it reached for the sun, we’ll prop it up and give it a little loving care.
Truly this was such a sweet surprise, maybe even a benediction. The logging we did last year disturbed me so. We removed more trees than I was comfortable with, many more than we needed to. We’ve replanted a number of cedar and fir seedlings and native shrubs, but somehow finding this small apple tree assures me our woods will recover. If this lovely little tree can survive, even thrive, I think Mother Nature will bless our efforts and will help us care for our few acres of forest.
sarah says
How beautiful! <3
Dori says
Thank you, dear Sarah. Truly, finding that little tree lifted my spirits greatly. : )
Teemie says
A sweet blessing
Dori says
Yes indeed, Teemie, a sweet blessing and a happy surprise. xo
Stephanie Zea says
So glad something wonderful emerged after the clearing. I know your heart was heavy with that. xxx
Dori says
Finding the apple tree was such a delight, and now that the grass is beginning to grow and some of the little things we planted are taking hold, it doesn’t look quite so bare. I’m getting there. :)
Lauren says
Hello! I found you through Milla’s blog, and wow! What a lovely apple tree that is! We have one that looks identical, but it was planted by the people who lived here before us, so I’m not sure just how old it is. What a wonderful gift an apple tree is! We never would have thought to plant one, but over the years, it has given us hundreds and hundreds of apples — apples to cook into applesauce, apple cakes, apple pies, and of course apples to eat while hanging by the tree branches (our little boys, not us!). I hope you are able to enjoy some this summer!
Dori says
Hello, Lauren, it’s delightful to meet you. Reading through your “About” page, I am sure I have visited your site before. Will have to watch your TV episode. That must have been quite the experience!
Yes…apple trees are a marvelous thing. We left two behind at our old house and I was missing their pretty blossoms this spring, not to mention the apples in autumn! If my little foundling receives enough sun and produces any apples, I’ll be delighted!
deb says
such a wonderful discovery!
Dori says
Yes, a truly wonderful discovery! Thank you so much for visiting, Deb. I just finished a lovely visit to your blog and etsy store. I immediately recognized your work. :)
gkgirl says
beautiful! so pretty!