My darling daughter Natasha is a creative thinker. Last year her Grandma asked what type of present she wanted for her birthday.

Natasha quickly replied with a single word.

Tree

She wanted a tree to climb and play under. And we live in a newly built housing addition. There just aren't very many trees here.

Now Grandma is very used to Natasha's creative and unusual thoughts... And Grandma loves trees too. So she decided to get Natasha a birthday tree.

Natasha had 2 criteria. The tree had to provide shade and be good to climb. Since trees are rarely sold on their climbability, they had to spend some quality time discussing this criteria. Then they went shopping together and settled on a fast growing oak tree.

It was a SURPRISE for me. I found out about the tree after it was purchased but before it was in the ground.

It was a welcome surprise. I love trees as well. I had been talking about buying one.

Both of us were very excited to see that the oak tree survived the winter. The picture above shows the tree's new leaves.

I would love to hear other children's unusual birthday requests. Please post a comment or send me an email at adoptukraineblog@adoptionmail.com.