Why do trees in swamps not bloom sometimes?

Dear Clever Cali,

Why do trees in swamps not bloom sometimes? I see thick forests which suddenly give way to bare wood trees in swamps. Is there a real life Shrek tearing down the foliage?

Sincerely,

Curious Cathy

Dear Curious Cathy,

Great question! Where I live there are many marshy swamps lining the highways. Sometimes, as you say, dead trees rise up in the middle of swampy patches of land. Too much water in a swamp can cause trees to struggle to regrow. Like the old adage, too much of a good thing… Some trees can thrive in water, like mangroves, which grow well in swamps and marshy areas.

Clever Cali

 Dear Clever Cali,

HELP! I bought brand-new shoes and they’re already dirty. I just got them and I want them to be clean and last a long time. HELP!

Sincerely,

Stressing Sam

Dear Stressing Sam,

Have no fear! I’m no cobbler but I can say that there is certainly hope for you. My favorite shoes, white sneakers, got dirty recently. Just use a little plain no-gel toothpaste on a brush and gently wipe away dirt.

Clever Cali