This painting is a partial recreate from my field sketchbook that always accompanies my hikes at my beloved place, the Notch Hill in Nanoose Bay. There is a large, dying, arbutus tree that comes to a view when we hike the Gerry Oak open grass field. Path climbs up to this still standing “Notch Oldie" and turns up just in front of its magnificent presence in the open field. There are far bigger old arbutus trees on the island but this one is special because of its high forest setting. I am fascinated by the tree's struggle to survive, by its twists and turns, its timeless beauty and amazing colors. The view never stops to amaze me when hiking this particular spot hence I sketch it often. Varied lighting conditions change every hour and the best time to experience the "Notch Oldie" is in the early morning when the tree is lit against the dark forest behind it. I shall continue painting this fascinating tree as the dead branches keep falling down to the ground quite rapidly.