It Has Been a Pleasure

Written by: Bill Reichenbach, Certified Arborist WI-0188A

Posted: 2018 | Spring | Wachtel News

Working with trees is certainly a rewarding endeavor. However, really what makes it so rewarding is working with the people who care for their trees. I could say I am in the tree business, but in reality I am in the people business, we all are.

It all started decades ago, back in the 1980’s. It started on one property with one client; it was a simple landscape design and installation project in the back yard. An informal border to define the space, provide some screening, and provide a backdrop. The plantings still exist today, but what has really developed is a long-term relationship and a mutual appreciation for working with plants in the landscape.

Together we have planned and implemented many planting projects through the years. Every few years some pruning work is in order, as well as annual plant health care treatments that come with a nice yard. This past winter we finally had to remove the big elm in the back yard that had seen its better days.

I cannot remember how many times I have been on this property. What I do remember is the time spent on the back deck. Yes, we would discuss the work at hand, but more often than not time was spent ‘shooting the breeze’. Talk of the weather, bird life, family, gardening and current events often took precedence.

Winter was also a good time to visit, a hot cup of coffee and a cookie sure made the discussions of upcoming projects more enjoyable. The view into the back yard from the kitchen table was nice too. If I really played my cards right, I stopped by at lunchtime, a bowl of hot soup might be in the works!

Yes, working with trees is great, but working with the people is often the most enjoyable and rewarding part of the job. So I say thank you to this client/friend and numerous others, ‘It has been a pleasure’.