Yesterday, two of my trees got a haircut, and it really spruced up the place! #punalert

When Dave and I moved into our house in 2010, we planted two trees on the boulevard right away. One was a linden, and one was a maple.

Well, the trees have grown quite well in the last twelve years! I have done some pruning over several seasons, but I don’t know all the ins and outs of tree trimming. So, this year, I decided to get some professional help! It was time.

The trees are big enough that it was getting difficult to see around them when on the sidewalk and pulling out of my driveway. And even just walking on the sidewalk meant you’d have to move over to the far side to avoid getting poked. Some of the branches hang low but actually start much higher. I didn’t know if it was good to cut those ones, or if it risked ruining the shape of the tree. I’m glad I called in the pros!

Safety is one concern, but there are also city requirements for those trees since technically, they own them. (Homeowners do all the work, but we do get a credit for planting them originally.)

Yesterday, the three workers came to trim my trees. I was able to take a couple of hours off work since they require the homeowner to be present. Thankfully, it was a beautiful morning!

They cut several branches, which might sound extreme, but they will continue to grow several more feet! The trees are better off because they can use that energy to move upward rather than maintain the weightier branches below.

Growth is difficult sometimes, but it’s even more challenging if we hold on to what no longer serves us. It’s good to let go of some things in order to keep moving forward (or upward, if you are a tree!).

A few takeaways for if you are trimming trees or just want to keep growing:

1. Take baby steps.  You can learn a ton, but sometimes you just need to get it done. Started slowly, and the rest will become clear.
2. Timing is important. Things happen in seasons… for a reason. Sometimes it matters if you are too early or too late.
3. Know when to call in the professionals. These are the specialists who can answer questions, help with the tough stuff, and set you up for success. In life, that might also look like a counselor, a teacher, or even a mentor (who has experience with what you are facing). Be willing to ask for help.
4. Dress for the work ahead. In most professions, clothing is functional. Would you really trust a maintenance worker dressed like they didn’t like to get dirty? On the other hand, would you want to eat food prepared by a chef with dirty clothes?!
5. The right tools are key. Chainsaws, knives with jagged teeth, long poles, and pulleys, were all used yesterday. Each job requires its own gear. Speaking of tools, don’t forget to put on your spiritual armor (read Ephesians 6:10-17)!
6. Don’t be afraid of difficult work; it’s worth the effort to get results. Pruning hurts, but it is necessary.
7. Don’t beat yourself up for what you didn’t know. Trust God has it all under control. He can take care of any mistakes and use them for your good!
8. God does the ultimate pruning. Stay close to Him, so you are on the right side of the cutting (read John 15:1-5)!

Well, I am so happy with the results and noticed an immediate improvement! The trees should be good for a couple of years before some maintenance pruning. That gives them plenty of time to keep growing!

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God, thanks for pruning me. Help me stay close to You, the True Vine and Source of Life! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite type of tree?

Tasks: Read John 15:1-5 and contemplate how God may be pruning you!