Some people love fancy orchids and I admit that orchids are a marvel.

Some people are into roses (I prefer the ones that also smell wonderful – what’s the point of a pretty rose that doesn’t smell?).

Others admire cacti and I can see why……but me, I like trees.

Give me any old tree and I’ll go on and on about it. I love the high desert piñon in New Mexico. I love oak, ash and maple. I love the Californian Redwoods, the marvelous Mangroves in Florida and I can’t wait to see a really old Bristle Cone Pine Tree in Utah or Nevada….some are over 5,000 years old! I love gnarly olive trees and wish I could grow some in Santa Fe. I love those tall pine trees in Italy with all of the branches cut off except the top so they provide shade and yet leave room for people gathering or playing Boccia beneath.

In February I bought a little box at Urban Outfitters, a Bonzai kit with Japanese Maple seeds. By now I have four maples that are between 6 inches and two feet tall. I don’t have the heart to turn them into little Bonzai trees. Instead I will put them in larger pots next spring and will slowly get them used to the outside. I’ll find them a spot without a lot of wind and not much direct sun and will plant them there.

I think I love trees because by nature I am not a patient man and the trees, they teach me patience.