Thellingson’s tree: a spring icon
As we shift into warmer weather and students move studying and socializing to the quad, now would be a good time to get to know the many trees we share our campus with. If you were hoping to spend some quality time with yourself in the sun, I’d recommend stopping by the solitary tree on the Thorson-Ellingson quad. A favorite of mine — dubbed Thellingson by yours truly — this tree serves as a sentinel and welcoming face to anyone following the winding road past Buntrock, up towards the college.
Slightly twisted, with newly bloomed pink buds dotting its branches, the Thellingson tree provides some shade for lounging. And what better tree to befriend on campus than the lonely Thellingson? You could hold hands with the low-hanging branches, give the trunk a little hug, or store valuables in the small opening at the bottom of its trunk (although first verify that there are no animals living there). If you were hoping to hang a hammock, this might not be the best spot as Thellingson’s nearest neighbor happens to be across the road.
My recommendation for enjoying the company of the Thellingson tree includes a beverage of some sort, and a book or laptop, depending on what academic work you need to complete. A blanket to lay on the grass, a snack to feed to the squirrels who will undoubtedly bother you, and a small collection of volatile objects you can throw at passersby complete your Thellingson tree starter kit. Enjoy the weather, give the grass a friendly pat, and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Alma Palahniuk is from St. Paul, Minn.
Her major is English.
