Both of these photos reveal the base of my favorite tree.  When I sit against its ageless trunk, my place is anywhere visible in these pictures.  The opposite side of the tree has new branch growth near the ground, so I do not disturb those limbs but instead find refuge where my friend offers no obstructions.

First, on a cloudy afternoon with a slow shutter speed…

Second, on the same day with a faster shutter speed (I actually like this darker presence more than the lighter one above)…