Me and my mom’s tree, Ravenna Park, Seattle
Back in 2007, when I was program director for the Seattle Parks Foundation, we launched a new tree donation program. To help kick start the program, my family and I donated the first tree. It was a Mt. Fuji Cherry Prunus seruulata memorial tree for my mother Frances, who had recently passed away. She loved trees, gardens and flowers, so this was a fitting memory of her. We visit it often and watch it change with the seasons. Of course, the highlight is each spring when it is in full bloom with a view of Mt. Rainier behind it. Whenever we see this tree, which is often, we are reminded of my mom and the things she cherished.
The tree donation program is still going strong at the Parks Foundation. As Mother’s Day approaches, perhaps you have a mom or another loved one you would like to honor. Trees are marvelous living legacies for our loved ones. They honor the past and brighten the future. If you are interested, go to Seattle Parks Foundation’s website: http://seattleparksfoundation.org/current-projects-donate-a-tree/
Trees are generally planted in the fall and winter, and there are also more affordable options available such as adopting a tree or sponsoring one. Many other cities have tree donation programs as well.
My family and I also donated a tree to mom at the Chicago Botanic Garden. We love visiting both trees and both places…the kinds of places my mom liked too. Consider a living legacy for one of your loved ones. You won’t regret it!
