Planting a tree is a unique way to mark an important event in your life, whether it’s to mourn the loss of a loved one, celebrate the birth of a child, or, in this case, to cheer the new direction for our country. So, I planted a palm tree and dubbed it “Barack Opalma”. Barack is a Manila Palm (Veitchia merrillii) that I purchased in Waimanalo and planted in November 2008. May he (the tree) grow tall and strong over the next eight years! May he (the person) also have eight years of success.

Barack (the tree) is honored to have Barack (the President-Elect) visiting him this week here in Kailua, Hawaii as next President and his family enjoy their Christmas vacation. Although Barack (the person) is unlikely to stop by my house to see what I’m guessing is his first Arecaceae namesake, nevertheless it surely bodes well for our future (by which I mean Barack, the tree, and me).

If you plant a tree of your own for Barack Obama, take a photo and post it here!