A Tree that Needed to be Photographed

I got a phone call the other day and the message was simple. There is a tree in Salisbury that needs to be photographed.  Apparently my father rides his bike past it every now and then and tried to describe it to me. To make a long story short here is what I saw.

There is no reason that this tree should be alive, its entire interior has been eaten away by something. My father could literally climb inside and peer outward.

From almost every angle this tree just screams dead.

However, when you take a second look you will not only notice the leaves but more impressing is the fact that this tree is literally covered with life.

This tree is the embodiment of the circle of life. The leaves and mosses are converting the sun's energy into food, the tree itself is providing animals with food and shelter. The fungi and lichen are converting the decomposing portions back to hydro-carbons.

The Gathering in the Orchard

If you have not noticed yet, its Autumn. And that can only mean one thing. It must be that time of year to pack up the kids ...

... and put on the war paint ...

... because its time again for apple pickin'!

Since my wife and I moved out to central Mass we have been an hour and a half away from friends and family in any direction. However, once a year in October we like to have a gathering of the friends and family for an annual apple picking cook out. This year (as every year) we had quite the turn out! Trying to get a picture of everyone is impossible but I do try every year. No, if you are wondering that is not everyone.

Its quite the sight to see so many from so many generations gathering yearly. As most married couples know or will soon find out it is always about going to see the friends, or one of the two families. It is truely nice to be able to have so many from up and down the east coast of Massachusetts getting together in the middle of the state.

The stories begin in the parking lot as people arrive.

After a short hayride, we're off to find apples!

Not that apple, we usually try to go for ones without warts.

More like that apple.

With so many generations represented it is interesting to see some of the children are not yet old enough to walk on their own.

Some of them just like to be carried.

Some are just too excited to be contained!

This one even found her way to the forbidden zone. Though I am not sure she cared, I am sure the apple was sweeter just for that fact.

Family traditions are a wonderful thing and I am so glad that my wife and I are able to bring so many people together for such a fabulous day. I would like to thank all of the people who made the day such a success as most of the people reading this probably attended. If you did not attend than thank you for reading.