The Infamous Gang of Seven

 
"Shorty, The Three Sisters, Stubs and the Two Cousins (once removed)"

This group of trees qualifies as a gang for they can be seen, just loitering about, at any given time of the day.

"Shorty" is an aspiring Norway Pine. He was planted only recently, given the latest non-invasive ring data tests. Though still a wee lad, he is not one to be intimidated by cold weather, towering trees, or yes...even dogs. "Shorty" hopes to gain a respectable height but the odds are against him....'cause let's face it, he's a long, long way from home.

"The Three Sisters" are an aloof lot. It is with haughty disdain that they view the world--most of which lies beneath them. Either that, or it lays beneath them. They can never quite figure it out. But it matters not, since they are so much better than everyone else. They exist without visible means of support, which leads one to believe they have a very rich uncle somewhere....

"Stubby" used to be a somewhat scrubby deciduous tree, until an unfortunate encounter with two farmers, a wagon and a chain saw. It was all over in a matter of minutes. And, as much as we all enjoyed the thrill and roar of mechanized instruments of tree destruction, we all felt a little shiver run through us. Especially when the leftover branches went up in flames. (although, it was a nice touch when farmer's wife, Juliet, threw on the lighter fluid....the kids always get a kick out of infernos)

Though this truncation happened only recently, no one seems able to remember "Stubby's" original name before he became....well.....so stubby. Most likely it was something akin to "That Daft Ash Tree." Despite his changed looks, "Stubby" will forever remain in our hearts and minds. But frankly, we think he looks better short.

"The Two Cousins (once removed)" are like two pretenders who've sidled up unawares. No one ever saw them come, they were just there, one day. Oh, they try to put on airs and act as upper crust as "The Three Sisters," but most of the neighborhood isn't buying it. Maybe it's the Sisters' nicely turned out tops, the slightly better symetry....or, maybe it's just 'cause we like the number three better than two. Whatever the reason, "The Two Cousins (once removed)" have never enjoyed that feeling of inclusion they so desperately crave. But it is safe to say they are tolerated. They add a certain....je ne sais quoi....."outsider ambiance" to the group.

And there you have it. The Gang of Seven. Other than blowing about in the wind, they haven't actually done anything. Yet.

But we intend to keep our eyes on them.

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