To do this I couldn’t think of a better place for me personally than to go back to where it all began for me.  The National Arboretum in Washington D.C.  So this past week end I hopped a plane to the nation’s capital to view the trees that inspired me so long ago…

This picture is a picture of me taking photos of the trees at the arboretum the very first time I saw them. It was 1996 and remember it like yesterday. The amazing feeling when I saw these perfect little trees was incredible and still haven’t lost that when I see a well done bonsai. It when then that I realized how special these trees are and how much emotion can be brought out from those viewing them. This is why I do bonsai.

This is a picture of me from this past week. My photo equipment has certainly become more expensive.  However my passion for these trees have never been so strong.  I know I have a long way to go, and the trees at the arboretum are a reminder to me of what can be accomplished over time.  I need to stay focused and remind myself of why I constantly work on my trees to improve their health, develop the branching, and bring out the emotions of those that will see them.

I may never create anything as spectacular as John Naka’s Goshen, but I think I’m okay with that.  We can’t all be the best, but we can certainly try and have fun along the way.  Just hang in there…

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