drawing: the oak tree

Long before Henry the VIII was the King of England and long before Leonardo da Vinci painted his famous painting Mona Lisa, an oak tree began its life, 600-years ago. Generations of American Indians enjoyed the shade underneath its long branches. Even George Washington was here, during the revolutionary war.

Sadly, now, the old oak tree is dying. It is showing its age. There are steel props and support wires applied by caring people, desperately holding up its heavy branches.

The New Jersey town is understandably distraught. It is like a family member is going away and so is piece of history.

I visit the gentle giant to witness its grandeur which still stands next to a church in Basking Ridge, NJ. I am so glad I did. In own my way, I honor the amazing tree by doing a little sketch.

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hiking: long path trail (fort lee, nj)

The Long Path trail, in Fort Lee, NJ, is reminiscent of Frodo’s trek to Mordor in Lord of the Rings… except without the fiery skies. It begins at 4000 feet high on the cliffs of the Palisades, and then descends to the river.  Option 2: drive to the bottom where there is a boat landing parking area and climb up the trail.  Option 3: hike both ways for a great workout on the gluteus maximus!  A wonderful view of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge is the reward.