If you went to Iowa State University, you might recognize this iconic landmark of a Sycamore tree, a towering beacon that welcomes all who come to visit the beautiful campus and home of the Cyclones.

I took this shot while leaning up against her strong, massive base, at the corner of University Avenue and Lincoln Way, in Ames, Iowa while my husband (a certified arborist, aka tree nerd,) was attending a tree conference! It was a freezing cold day in February, and if you've ever spent time in Ames, Iowa, you know just HOW COLD it can be! 

My fingers were going numb, and the wind was blowing my long hair around in circles, making it difficult to see and compose my shot. I was determined not to give into that bitter cold because the sun was shining and the light was perfect. That determination comes from years of living in Iowa, and learning how to embrace the rollercoaster ride that is also known as "Iowa Weather".

Iowa State University is a place where I spent four of the best years of my life, a place where I met my husband, and a place where I learned a greater appreciation of all things nature inspired, with a degree in Horticulture.

This beautiful Sycamore tree is so many metaphors to me.  In this image though, she is a mother.  A beautiful woman, capable of doing so many things.  A strong woman, able to care for so many children, even those who are not her own.  Her strong arms extend outward, in all directions, as if to say, come to me, all of you who need comfort, all of you who need shelter, all of you who need respite from the cold places.  All are welcome in her arms.