THE Prettiest Tree 2012

Every year for a very long time I've chosen "THE Prettiest Tree" from among the ones I drive by in my usual life.  It can't be in a botanical garden or way up in the mountains where I rarely go.
Here is this year's tree: 

This year I chose a little for sentiment . Last summer Mom was moved to a new room at the rest home. This lovely Vine Maple is just outside her room tinting the light that comes in a cheery yellow. I don't know how long I'm going to be able to visit this tree, so I'm choosing it over other very beautiful trees.

Here is a shot across the courtyard.

You can see how the bright yellow is just tinged with red.