There is wisdom earned by growing in such a harsh environment. Those changes in the tree as it has grown gnarling and roots twisting to find its optimum position, offshoots have died, the trunk has split; yet, this magnificent tree stands the test of time. Incredible beauty is displayed with its hard-won scars. These visible reminders show us, whatever comes our way, we will survive.
During the darkest, coldest and most turbulent times – hope persists.

While hiking this past October with a friend, I was awe-struck by this over 400-year-old Limber Pine, called to paint and share the pine's story as it spoke volumes to me at first sight.
A mere seedling in the year 1586, this particular Limber Pine is a Boundary Pine that marks the south grazing leases of the Buffalo Head Ranch in the Highwood Valley of Southern Alberta. The Canadian wilderness author, R.M. Patterson, has written about this very tree. The Heritage Tree Foundation of Canada also features this Limber Pine.