Long time readers know that we have a very special tree inside Sibe Quentin that we call the Tree of Life. We know that the field was cleared in the 1930’s by the ranch that used to own the property (and is now our next door neighbor as they have sold off some pieces of land including ours), but that this tree was spared by the ranch owner. Thus, it is one of the few trees in the field itself and certainly the oldest tree in the field.

Frankie and Typhoon inspecting the Tree of Life.

The tree towers over our house and field, its dominance casting a huge shadow for the Herd to shelter from the sun. Thus, fittingly, it is where we have spread the ashes of past Herd members Kodiak and Rusty.

This picture of the Tree of Life was taken in mid-August before the changing leaves. For perspective, check out the 8 foot fence or the corner of the house.

Yesterday morning, a security alert was called and Frankie and Typhoon scampered to the tree. Something had apparently raced up the tree and away from the dogs (we don’t really have squirrels, so that is not the likely suspect). Hu-Dad could never find it, but Frankie and Typhoon stood guard for quite a while. Apparently something had found sanctuary in our Tree of Life. Somehow, we find that quite fitting.

I know you are in there somewhere.

Our field is coming alive with color as fall is officially here. We expect the colors to peak at our elevation within the next week or so and then winter will be arriving soon after.

The edges of our field are alive with color.