Knotty

 I read last week that in Germany it was believed that the pine tree gave birth to wood spirits and that they would emerge from every hole and knot in the trunk. It's a charming idea, but having encountered this fellow recently, I'm not quite so sure that it could be applied to every tree....this one looks decidedly grumpy. More akin to the Grinch and likely to tell you to "get knotted" than a spirit bearing soul I think!

However, I was pleased to make its acquaintance in our local park.

Arilx