I see this tree every time I go to the cottage. I have photographed it more than once. As we were leaving the resort after checking up on the snow load on the cottage, I felt compelled to stop and make this photo, even though I only had my smartphone. I promised myself I would come back with my camera - and soon.
The following day, (Sunday) I learned that a dear friend of mine had passed away on Saturday. This tree was his favourite tree, part of his family farm on Rice Lake. So much so, his wife ordered a different version of this photo as a 50th birthday gift for him.
I soon realized that perhaps the compulsion I felt to make this photo was more than just a coincidence.
I am still in shock over this loss. It still doesn't seem real. But I know it is and I know my sense of loss pales to what his family is going through.
