Papa's Tree

If you were ever fortunate to spend any quality time with Skyler's Papa then it's correct to make the assumption that he definitely improved your life. Keep America Beautiful is the largest improvement organization in the United States, focusing on beautification. So how fitting it became when the local Cleveland chapter dedicated a tree in my Father's honor. 



I briefly include a small story regarding the tree dedication in my last post. You may recall that Auntie Cheryl, Gammy, Skyler and myself met with five board members of Keep America Beautiful, a county commissioner and Auntie Cheryl's Pastor, Brother Green for the memorial. Here's a sweet picture of Skyler and Brother Green sharing time together at Papa's tree.

Auntie Cheryl picked a London Poplar Tree and the location was chosen on the Greenway Trail about a quarter of a mile from her office. Perfect for daily visits! We were interviewed by Lucie Wilson and the story was featured on the front page of the Cleveland Daily Banner that Sunday. I thought it made Mother's Day extra special.

I've often shared with many of my friends and family members about Skyler's conversations with her Papa. They truly are unbelievable and we feel blessed that she tells us these remarkable encounters. Lucie, the newspaper journalist, interviewed Sky and asked her if her Papa had expressed his feeling about the dedication. The Princess smiled and said, "Yes, Papa is here and he's very happy. He wants a purple tree"! We chuckled regarding the purple tree part but minutes after arriving to the tree, the tag that was blowing from the trunk read, "London Poplar-Color Rouge. How close is that to purple! *Amazing* If interested, you can read all about the story here:
 http://www.clevelandbanner.com/view/full_story/18576987/article-Tree-fitting-dedication--to-a-beloved-dad or just browse the attached article.

Although many tears were shed, the day couldn't have been any prettier. In fact the only way that ceremony could have been any better was if Auntie Nicola was there in person instead of spirit. She was greatly missed.

Papa's legacy lives and every tree is a living legacy.  What a unique tribute that will grow stronger and stronger each year. The blessings that Papa brought us were as numerous as the leaves on his tree. I look forward to visiting Papa's tree with Skyler and the rest of my family. Long may it stand, reaching ever upward, to embrace the light & warmth of Heaven above.

May 29, 2009.......Love at first sight.