Honie Briggs

Trees by Joyce Kilmer

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is pressed

Against the sweet earth’s flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

Call it a talent, a gift or a passion. My friend Carol has it in abundance. Her garden parties are nothing short of inspired. Each year she chooses a theme, compiles educational materials and hosts a casual event with classic style. There is a planned presentation and door prizes. Guest’s names go into a basket, then are drawn throughout the party for an opportunity to select from an assortment of garden related items. In addition to those thoughtful gifts from Carol, guests enjoy tasty treats lovingly prepared by her brother. There is always a fun craft project and plant exchange.

This year’s garden party was called Branch Out to celebrate the beauty of trees. An arborist was on hand to answer questions about tree selection and proper care after the brutal summer we experienced here in Texas last year. We learned about the Cross Timber Forest which spans from Oklahoma across Texas and the decline of several varieties of oak trees. There are efforts to introduce oaks into public landscapes and saplings are being given to elementary school students, but factors such as over development, drought and disease continue to be a challenge for old growth.

Carol made it seem effortless, but a great deal of preparation goes into her annual garden party. Her profession requires her to be organized and her skills were obvious as she, once again, brought friends, neighbors and master gardeners together to learn and share the joy of gardening.