The Tempest And The Tree

   What you find in the debris during a hurricane can pretty much tell the severity of the blow.  Usually, we find a "wake-line" of dead marsh mats, boards, trash and small pieces of driftwood.  If a storm of a Category 4 or 5 comes, the tidal surge brings heartbreaking stories in the form of people's homes, businesses and the possibility of finding one not so fortunate.  Thankfully, the only deaths on the Bayou have been critters and not humans.  The stronger the storm, the greater the chance of others' belongings being washed ashore here or in the shallows of the Bayou.  After Hurricane Katrina, boats, sides of houses, furniture and even a refrigerator truck came into the yard.  Sofas were hung in the tops of trees and whole decks were laid against the house.  We were fortunate that Hurricane Zeta came in as a Category 2 and whipped itself right out of here with great speed.  The wake line contains the marsh mats and boards but very few other items.  

  One of the more interesting (and beautiful) items to sit in the front yard compliments of Hurricane Zeta is a very large piece of driftwood.  The thing is about five feet in length and perhaps has a diameter of almost fifteen inches.  It has beautiful knot holes and stubby limbs.  The driftwood piece is hollow and has been smoothed by the tide waters.  The wood is remarkably clean so the grain can be easily seen.  

  One thing that interested me was how many hurricanes this once massive tree had seen.  It is obvious to note that the winds were not easy on it.  The entire piece was once twisted mercilessly by the winds.  The woodgrain wraps around the tree instead of being straight. It is a beautiful piece and should have a place to show its glory.  Either this piece will find its way up the hill to the Little Bayou House or will be carted to my brother's place across the way.  We both find the piece interesting.  Either way, the driftwood will finally find a home after so many years being tossed and turned by a tempest.