Colorado is my happy place!

As our nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of its independence, I felt that, as someone with appreciation for trees who enjoys bonsai as a hobby, I’d be remiss —maybe even unpatriotic—to let this historic milestone pass without paying tribute to one of America's greatest living symbols; the mighty oak, our National Tree. Yesterday, I roughly trimmed and shaped this oak tree (see photos) that I’ve grown from an acorn in preparation for today, on its continued journey as a bonsai. I’ve intentionally let it grow freely to increase the size of the trunk and branches before pruning it back in its rough form multiple times as it’s still in development - not refinement yet. The timing could not have been more fitting to dress it up. The oak is not only America’s National Tree; it’s also honored as the national tree of several other nations, including those of some of our group here from England, and Poland, among others. Across cultures and throughout history, the oak has come to symbolize strength, courage, endurance, wisdom, and faith. Scientists estimate that oak trees have existed on Earth for approximately 65,000,000 years. Yes, 65 million. Few living things have contributed more generously to mankind. Oaks help produce the oxygen we breathe and clean it, provide shade that cools us and our earth, enrich the soil and shelter wildlife They have supplied firewood for heat, and have furnished humanity medicine from their bark and food from their acorns for thousands of years—maybe longer—benefitting humans, our beloved birds, squirrels, and many other creatures. In turn, those creatures have carried, scattered and buried those acorns far and wide, helping spread these magnificent trees across the globe. The oak occupies a place of honor in spiritual traditions and religious history, symbolizing steadfastness, righteousness, and the enduring strength of creation. Throughout military history, the oak has likewise represented valor, leadership, rank and distinguished service, appearing in military insignia and decorations around the world.

We have 2 babies as of this morning💕!! There was a 4th egg in there yesterday - I think they are too little to cover it up or Momma Blue may have disposed of it🤷🏽‍♀️. The miracle of life!

I am keeping a watchful eye on my eastern bluebird nest. We tend to have predators here that like to mess with the nest boxes. Momma went from one egg to four in two days so she has been busy! The parents are so fast it’s difficult to get pictures of them.

Yesterday I missed the session but I substituted 3 hours of weeding and cleaning the yard! 3 hours! The squats and bending paid off. I wasn't sore or tired after. So I went to visit a friend healing from a spinal injury who can't lift anything but needed 25lbs of laundry taken to a laundromat. So I carried 25 lbs of dirty then clean clothes up and down 4 flights of stairs! Only slightly breathless on the top flight. Two things I could never do if I had not found this group. Thank you Drew for making strength building so doable! I am so grateful.