I discovered this tree a couple days ago while hiking around in the forest just up the ridge from our house. I’ve seen trees fall in the forest. And I’ve heard trees pop and crack and screech. I’m guessing this one created some pretty wild sounds when it fell.
Years ago, while on a backpacking trip on California’s Lost Coast, I was in my tent, riding out a storm. Over the wind and rain I heard some very loud popping sounds. Instinctively, I moved to the side of the tent farthest away from the sounds. Then I heard a thud, and the ground shook just a little. The next morning I found the newly-fallen crown of a Fir tree just fifty feet from my tent.
It really made me think about how many things are just beyond our control. I’m glad I didn’t camp any closer to that tree.
Thanks for stopping by. Have a great weekend!
It’s a lovely old tree! Have you read Thomas Pakenham’s “Meetings with Remarkable Trees” and “Remarkabe Trees of the World”? They’re photoessays of some gorgeous trees around the world.
Judy
Thanks, Judy. I’m going to check these books out.
I love trees. Our farm rests in the middle of the woods. Lots and lots of wonderful trees.
I sure am glad you picked the right spot to camp that day, Paul. Happy weekend.
Thanks, Robyn. Sounds like a beautiful spot. I hope you have a great weekend, too.
So true, so many what if questions to ask in hind sight. And I love your treadmill desk!
Thanks, Laura. I really like the treadmill desk. Usually about half of my writing/computer time takes place on the Treadmill. This week has been an exception b/c I’m running a marathon tomorrow.
Like getting an agent! There are only so many things we can do:)
Good point, Terri. We have control over the writing but not what others think of it, or when they read it, or what other similar books they already represent!
A couple of years ago when I was up on my mountain in PA we had one of those October snowstorms that brought a bunch of trees crashing to the ground. One of them landed on my deck, just seconds after I had stepped inside. That one really made me think!
Wow! I bet that made you think!
When one of the Redwoods snap and fall in the canyon, the echo shudders our house. A small reminder that trees fall and you can’t do a thing about where and when.
Um. That tree is CRAZY!!! Love it. Also. I’m glad you didn’t die.
Wow! That tree is wild. Glad your California experience ended okay, and you are right; so many things are out of our control.
I’m glad you’re still with us!
The people of New York may relate to this one today — news of a tornado in Queens and Brooklyn! (So I’ve heard. I’m farther north in Boston area.)
Hiking and camping in the White Mountains of New Hampshire this weekend. Planning to admire the foliage, with hopes that all trees around campsite remain intact during our stay!
It’s sobering – and kind of awe-inspiring – to think how many things are just beyond our control….
Great photo, Paul (great tree!).
I used to think trees were sturdy plants, but then I saw a few fallen ones after hurricanes. It’s quite a sight, especially if they’re on a vehicle or house.
Wow, falling tree syndrome–first the squirrel and now the fir! The tree in that photo is amazing (and so are those wildflowers a few posts back–I’m late catching up). It’s always thrilling to hear trees crack in frost.
Actually, the things out of our control keep life exciting (as long as they don’t fall on our heads), don’t ya think?