This just in!!

OK . . . this will be our shortest blog ever! Our friend Ines has helped to identify our favorite tree. It is the "OMBU". My apologies to our gardener, Mario, as I heard "Bamboo" when he was actually saying "OMBU".



The ombú is a massive evergreen herb native to the Pampas of South America. The tree has an umbrella-like canopy that spreads to a girth of 12 to 15 meters (40 to 50 feet) and can attain a height of 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet). The ombú grows fast but being herbaceous its wood is soft and spongy enough to be cut with a knife. Because of this, it is also used in the art of bonsai, as it is easily manipulated to create the desired effect. Since the sap is poisonous, the ombú is not grazed by cattle and is immune to locusts and other pests. For similar reasons, the leaves are sometimes used as a laxative or purgant. It is a symbol of Uruguay, Argentina, and of Gaucho culture, as its canopy is quite distinguishable from afar and provides comfort and shelter from sun and rain. (Wikipedia)



Our thanks to Ines and Mario for solving the mystery.

And while we are taking care of old business . . . we now believe this to be a 58 Olds,



and this, a 60 Impala. Thanks Lanny!



Stay tuned for the next 2 installment as they promise to be beauties!

Hasta luego,
N & C