Early in our courtship, my husband and I hiked into Rothrock State Forest to meet “The Oak Tree.” This very important member of his extended family is a beloved, landmark tree. When our family gathers for reunions, a trek out to The Oak Tree is always among the festivities.
Why this tree? Its size and girth stood it apart from the rest of the forest, so it became a landmark among the hunters in our family decades ago. Judging by that girth, this oak tree is at least 100 years old. Its glory days are behind it, but still it stands.
This proper introduction to the The Oak Tree nine springs ago was a very good sign that my husband and I were meant for each other.
My name means “of the oak” in French (which is why my company is named Polished Oak Communications).
I was hugging trees long before I met my husband — or the rest of his family, now our family.
Oaks are strong, mighty and full of life.
If you have the space and can plant ONE tree, an oak is just about the best choice you can make:
– Oaks are majestic, among the largest trees on earth and long-lived.
– Oaks, willows and cherry trees can host more than 1,400 insect species. This is a good thing! 96% of all the terrestrial bird species in North America rely on insects and other arthropods to feed their young.
– Oaks top the list of shrubs and trees that provide habitat for moth and butterfly species at more than 534, according to research from entomologist Doug Tallamy. (A world without butterflies? I shudder.)
We’ve only planted one little apple tree since I moved here (into the “Man Cave”) to live with my husband and stepsons.
But we need an oak tree here on our property. Definitely. And I’ve figured out just the spot.
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Another great story! Thank you Lisa for sharing!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Beverly! Thank you for reading!
Ah, yes, the traditional trek to the oak tree. I have not done that in a long time. Great story once again! I have missed your writings. When Grandpa passed, Sam received a gift card from a local nursery. We planted a little oak tree in our back yard in his memory. And as the poem kind of goes “from a tiny sapling a mighty oak tree grew”. Not as large as THE oak tree,but it provides shade and comfort for us and a haven for many birds and a lot of scrambling squirrels.
Thank you Diane! Amazing what one tree can give us.