Silent Sentinel

Silent sentinel,
Watching those who pass below,
Casting long shadows.


This is my favourite not-dead tree. It's a Hungarian Oak and is apparently about 179 years old and stands about 28 metres high (nearly 92 feet in old money). I love it's perfect 'tree' shape and the reflections it gives in the lake - it truly is a great tree and I feel privileged to regard it as a friend as I walk past it most days (more about it here).

Old trees alway get me thinking about life and the fact that many trees survive for many of our generations. Who knows what they have seen. Also , the foresight of the gardeners who planted them, knowing they would never see the tree at mature height, but giving them as a gift to future generations. So I want to say "Thank you" to whoever planted this tree.


Apologies for not replying to many comments ... it's been a busy weekend and working all day today ... hope to catch up this evening.