Young children are amazing at 'being present' in the here and now when in nature, if given the time and the chance to play out in it. I was fortunate as a child to have a garden with a large horse chestnut tree in it. I really got to know that tree well through the seasons, through my senses and innate curiosity that all kids have. I recall it used to drop things onto the grass throughout the year that I would discover when running around in bare feet – the glossy sticky buds in the spring that would take some scrubbing off my feet later, small twigs, jaggy little conker shells that hurt when you trod on them and amazing shaped and coloured leaves in the autumn. Best of all however, as a child – the conkers!

Why is it I wonder we stop noticing as we get older? It is a lovely thing to get to know a tree. Its grounding presence, stoically accepting the changing seasons and going with the flow. Resting in the winter, bursting into life in the spring, radiant and confident in summer and having a final, colourful showdown in the autumn before getting ready to rest again.
I planted a wee tree in my small garden when we moved in 18 years ago before starting a family. I have got to know her well. She stands in the centre of the garden, and I see her every day. I can now lie in her shade and look up at her incredible leaves contrasting against the summer sky, watch the birds that shelter in her branches and the ants crawling up her trunk.
I have also recently adopted a new tree in a local park – a stately veteran that I was drawn to – I don’t know why. Now that we have a dog, I visit regularly and look forward to getting to know her more over the coming seasons and years. I wonder what wisdom she will impart?
I would encourage you to give it a go. If you go on a regular walk, next time you go, be on the look out for a tree that you feel drawn to. Maybe it is the shape or texture of the trunk or colour of the leaves. Whatever it is, try to notice it as you pass by on your daily walk. Stop for a minute and notice something new about it each time you pass. Walk round it. Get in close and study its leaves, fruit, bark, twigs. Feel the texture of its bark and leaves. Are any other plants or animals interacting with your tree? Look up the trunk into the high branches. Notice how the branches are arranged. Maybe you will notice a nest. You do not need to know what type of tree it is, though in time you may get curious and try to work it out. The more you use your senses, the more you will notice. If you are a creative sort, why not do a quick sketch, take a photo, or even write a poem? Above all enjoy getting to know your tree.
‘Seek out a tree, and let it teach you stillness.’ Eckhart Tolle
What a lovely thought to get to know a tree . I thought I was quite observant of trees until reading your blog . I notice them in general but will now think about being more specific in my observation.