For me, here's what the challenge is all about:
I really could care less if I win or not. But, I would like to see how my project stacks up against the other trees and gauge my progress in the art. I purchased my material last month and worked it the best I could. I selected something I wasn't familiar with and a design I felt would challenge me. I have learned from the experience in so many ways. I choose a Callistemon (Bottle Brush Tree) and learned that the branches are extremely very flexible and can easily be wired into almost any shape you like. I also learned that you can remove over two thirds of the foliage and the tree will laugh at you and respond by saying "is that all you got!" Since submitting my tree It has began back budding profusely. In fact, it has one shoot about 2 inches long already. Another interesting thing I found with the tree is that the bark near the soil line is very weak and can break away easily if you're not careful. So, for me it has never been about winning or losing. Good, bad or indifferent it's all about the journey. I'm looking forward to sharing my work with everyone in June.
...but hopefully I will kick this thing and find something.
