In the ongoing debate among my American and French friends, the question remains: Is pruning trees and bushes to their main trunks beneficial? Pollarding, as it is called in English, is commonly practiced in France and Romania (where my family is from), if suitable for the tree species. However, most of our American friends avoid any tree trimming. So, when my mother visited from France and began pollarding all the trees and bushes in my yard, it shocked my American friends. They asked, "Why harm your trees?" I replied, "I don't know, my mom did it!" Surprisingly, the trees and bushes thrived and rejuvenated. Since then, I regularly pollard, especially the magnificent hydrangea bushes. Trimming them back to the base each year amazes me as they grow back even more splendid. They inspire my artwork greatly. This painting was done outdoors, in front of the grand bush, known as "plein air" painting. Capturing a close-up of the flowers and leaves allowed me to freely perceive and interpret colors amidst the open-air environment.