“Arvin’s Arboretum”

Author’s Note: This is a Take Ten to Write story and has not been proofread for errors. If I feel inspired or if there’s interest in the story, I’ll post a revised, edited, and extended version at a later date. Happy reading!

Prompt: “Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.” – Julia Child

I’ve always loved trees. I love massive sycamores and tiny bonsais. I love deciduous trees and coniferous trees. I love trees with smooth bark and trees with rough bark. I love trees with their leaves and I love trees without their leaves.

Some might even say that I have an obsession with trees. I won’t argue with that; I know it’s true.

That’s why I decided to create my very own tree sanctuary: Arvin’s Arboretum. I’ve got all kinds of trees here, from the common maple to the beautiful cherry blossom. I’ve carefully selected each plant to ensure the happiness and health of each of my trees.

But I’ve gotten myself into a bit of a pickle. You see, I wanted to have every single species of tree in my arboretum. Of course, it’s a lot of upkeep, but when it’s my full-time job, I’m happy to do it. But that’s not my problem. My problem is that there’s a species of tree, the Pennantia baylisiana, that only has one remaining specimen. I need that tree. I must have it in my collection.

So I’m going to New Zealand tomorrow to pick it up. My trouble is that I need to figure out how to transport it back to my arboretum.

Theft? No, not theft. Passion.

Final Comments: I got myself in a bit of a pickle by choosing trees as the protagonist’s obsession… Had to do a bit of research but I ended up learning about trees!

Overall Rating: 😅