Writer’s Tree

Whenever I get out of my car & walk a bit, it usually happens that I discover something unique and interesting.
Today was no exception.
Well off the beaten track, a few doors away from the small Malaga Cove post office, I saw the Writers’ Tree.
The dedication plaque, from almost 4 years ago, reads:
«This Writers’ Tree is dedicated to those writers who hail from, write about or evoke the sense of place that is the Palos Verdes Peninsula. These stories are the roots connecting readers to this area for a lifetime.»
Under & around the little tree, on a pathway, are stones displaying names of authors and illustrators who fit the criteria defined in the dedication.
A local merchant happened to be standing near the tree, and told me I must come back to see it when it’s all in bloom. She said it’s covered with beautiful white flowers in the Spring.
There are many reasons why I love Palos Verdes, from its huge spectacular views to its special tiny hidden places.
Today I really needed to connect with a feeling of timelessness. I had opened a local paper this morning to see a photo of an old friend, and read her obituary.
I haven’t seen her in awhile, didn’t even know she had been sick.
She wasn’t a writer, she was initially my real estate agent.
But when I return to the Writers’ Tree in the Spring, I’ll think of her & be reminded of how quietly beautiful she was. And always, she will be missed.