I've watched this little tree grow for almost 15 years. About every three years the park staff do prescribed burns to clear out non-indigenous plants, which left uncontrolled would choke off all life in the forest. Each time they burn the fields I fear for this tree, but somehow it perseveres. I hope to come back and visit this tree one day, and find it growing strong and tall.

I'll be heading up to Toronto this weekend. I have to drop Lainey off. I'll be without her for a few weeks while I finish packing and sprucing up the house. Then, I'll head back up until the house sells - then back again for closing -- then back to Toronto for good. Crazy times.

My last day of work is nearing, and I have to say I'm feeling good. I feel like I did in college - my exams down, my thesis written, and just waiting for graduation. I had lots of great times, and some not-so-good times, but I probably wouldn't change a thing. I'm grateful. I learned a lot. It's time for me to move on - time for new growth.

Have a great weekend.

Listening to: I'd Love to Change the World - Ten Years After

Be sure to view the China series - superb