The Mother of the Forest – Watercolour in a Watercolour Moleskine

For years, her dense canopy has sheltered the younger trees in this wood. Birds, owls and many insects found refuge in her branches. Some years ago, as she approached old age, her foliage began to wither until no more appeared in the springtime. Her gaunt, gnarled limbs became more and more visible – a mere impression of her former magnificence. Still, she continued to provide shelter until last week’s storm undid most of what remained. It is likely her fate will be the woodsman’s axe as to spare this old beech tree, in this delicate condition, would be dangerous . Even now her fallen branches provide sanctuary for the ground living creatures and will continue to do so until the end. Then she will leave a final legacy as her decaying limbs will return nutrients to the soil she grew from. She continues to act as a true mother, caring for others. Thank you Mum.