I’ve always had a thing for trees. Not in that hippy-tree-hugging kind of way. More in that respect-for-nature kind of way, really. I mean I remember telling the neighbor’s kids not to break branches off the trees for fun. They didn’t like that, but once I explained that trees could feel things too, they realized they wouldn’t want their own limbs to be broken off for fun.

My fascination with trees starts way back. Back to the day I was born actually. You see, my father went out into our backyard and planted a tree when I was born. (I’m not sure if it was the same day or not, since there was a lot of commotion, but let’s just go with that since it sounds cooler.)

It became “my tree”. When visitors came to our home, I would point to it and say it was my tree. When things weren’t going my way, I’d sit under my tree. Listening for answers, or just knowing that this tree understood me. I mean, we were practically soul brother and sister.

When I grew up and moved away to the city, I realized there weren’t nearly as many trees as I liked. Some people might find walking alone at night amongst the trees frightening. But I find it comforting. Smelling that fresh air, it’s so pure with a hint of pine. Real pine.

That’s why when I was starting my business I decided that my pet cause should be trees. I mean how could I abandon the most steadfast friend there is, my tree?

So now I donate 10% of all sales to a tree planting foundation. So that other kids can have a tree to sit under, to call their friend, and to listen to for guidance.

Here are some of the latest donations I’ve made in your name. You are welcome to donate directly, because tree planting is really something that can change the planet.

Fruit Tree Planting Foundation – December 6th, 2009: $128

Make a donation yourself and join the Tree Planting Initiative.