The Waterfront Trail through Pickering (now easier than ever to get to!) offers some intriguing sights, including this retired former tree just off Frenchman's Bay. If you've ever tried to remove a tree stump, you can probably understand why a homeowner would choose to dress it up rather than dig it out. Still, Stumpy looks a little downcast. You would be too if you'd lost your crown and all your bark was cracked and peeling. But look at the bright side: he passes the days in the middle of a well-manicured lawn where he attracts the attention of passers-by and reminisces about the good old days. Maybe retirement isn't so bad.

If you want to cheer Stumpy up, you can visit him on the Waterfront Trail near the intersection of Douglas and Old Orchard Avenues in Pickering.

Photo by Val Dodge.