In front of my house stands a magnificent Ulmus parvifolia, its delicate leaves whispering stories of the past. Though I dreamt of a tire swing tethered beneath its sturdy branches, my parents insisted it wasn't quite big enough. Yet this tree has witnessed remarkable moments: the 1984 Summer Olympics igniting the spirit of Los Angeles and the vibrant rise of the neighborhood arts scene in the 1990s. Each day, it stands as a testament to both my childhood dreams and the city’s transformation, intertwining our stories and reminding us of the joy found in simplicity and community.