Hindered Growth

Here is an old Bur oak that has grown a lot to the left but seems to be restricted in growing to the right. It seems that a large tree existed to the right of this tree.

People sometimes are developed in one area but are stunted in another area. We should be aware of our weaknesses and work at them to grow in those areas.

We can turn our weaknesses to strength as we rely on Christ to use us and work through us.

Be prepared.

Look for ways to serve others with the same problem.

Partner with Other People’s Strengthsere.

Treat Your Weaknesses Like Blindspots.

Overwhelm your Weaknesses with Strengths.

Face your fears.

Grow from your mistakes.

Embrace your discomfort.

Take good care of yourself.

Speak to your mountain.

Be renewed in the Scriptures and turn to God.

Marked Twig of Oak

Not sure what kind of oak this is. My guess is Black oak. The twigs of Black oak are angled or have ridges on them. Looking further I see an example of a twig like this that is a Bur oak.

The lesson I learn from this tree is that even if there are attacks that cause a deformity, life can happen. We should not let physical problems stop us from believing God will support us in the work we have to do for Him.

Psalm 18:18

 "They confronted me in the day of my calamity, 

But the LORD was my stay."

Father, I look to you in health and in trouble. You are my support and protection.

Bur Oak Acorns

Bur Oak Acorns are unique in that the cap covers most of the acorn with fringe. They are larger than other types.

Bur Oak grows to be a dominate tree in the Oak/Hickory forest. Just as people collect pine cones for decorations, Bur oak acorns could be used for decorations also.

Let us remember it is God that gives strength and increases power. It is from Him that life flows from us to others. O bless the Lord and give thanks to His holy name.

Psalm 68:32-35

"Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth,

Sing praises to the Lord, Selah.

33 To Him who rides upon the highest heavens, which are from ancient times;

Behold, He speaks forth with His voice, a mighty voice.

34 Ascribe strength to God;

His majesty is over Israel

And His strength is in the skies.

35 O God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary.

The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people.

Blessed be God!"

Large White Oak

Photo taken 10/18/2016

f9 1/500 12mm ISO 1600

This White oak dominates in these woods. The other trees are much smaller and looked to be from another generation. Why does one tree dominate while others fail to make the size. Part of the reason is the type of tree it is. White oaks grow to a large size if given the right conditions. 

These oaks need to grow in full sunlight to gain full potential. If the tree is overshadowed it will grow slowly and bide its time till there is an opening in the canopy. With full sunlight, the tree that had been growing slowly will start to grow faster.

Christians need to receive light from our Lord Jesus to grow to their potential. At the same time there needs also the fellowship of other believers to encourage and guide them to better growth. We need the right mix of freedom and support to mature. 

Father, guide me to stay focused on You. Whether I'm a small tree or a large one, I look to you for my support.

Shingle Oak Remeasured

Photos taken the 26th of May 2014.



Shooting up the bole of this tree you can see the scars of old branches that grew in the past.



Photo of the tree in October 2010

 2014 Measurements
height 87'
 canopy 66' 56'
Circumference 101.25"
Total points of 203.5

 Oct 7 2010 measurement:
 height 83'
Canopy 63' one way and 67' the other
Circumference 95.5
Total points of 194.6

Height increased 5% Circumference increase 6% in 3 1/2 growing seasons.

There is a E Cottonwood tree encroaching from the left side of the photo. Notice the Shingle oak top growth is growing away from that tree.

Psalm 97:6 "The heavens declare His righteousness,
And all the peoples have seen His glory.

Hike among E Red Cedar

Hiking in a field that is reverting back to forest there is gray dogwood and E red cedar. The area has a nice cedar smell, which gives an accepting feeling. Of course the preponderance of E red cedar means the ground leaves somthing to be desired. yet I enjoyed walking through this inviting fragrance. I thought of tying up my hammock and reading in these woods.

Then I came across an oak tree that I call a Turkey oak because of the thin shaped lobes on the leaves.

While I was looking for the Turkey oak I saw a Chinquipin oak that I rough meausured at 10' circumferance.