The UD Tree

The last of our two big old Buckeye trees in the front yard has died. The first tree died the year after Pete and we have been nursing its companion for 3 years. It didn't leaf out this spring and so it goes after a good 100+ year life. I never stopped to think about why Pete's classmates picked a Buckeye Tree to plant in his honor. Funny how some things just come full circle... I stopped at UD today to see if Pete's tree had blossoms and it does- 28 blooms to be exact. Yellow. Only one blossom was open, the rest will likely come to full beauty this week. It was really beautiful and I am sure will be spectacular mid week. I couldn't help but stand there and sob and think about the many kindnesses of Pete's classmates for planting this lifesource for us. And to see it so healthy and in bloom was a reminder of love and goodness in the world. It is our 35th UD re-union this June and we plan to trek to the Tree with our own classmates (several who attended the planting and dedication in Fall 2008) and relive that event. Miss everyone. Miss Pete. Love, Helene (mom)