Latenight, yes it is supposed to look like a stick, albeit a slightly bigger and bigger stick each year. Then it will start to look like a twig someday(ducking). And one day it will slowly turn into a branch, LOL. Then technically I guess you could call it a shrub.
Even if it looks dead, it is very alive. Watch the nodes and you will see them swell as spring draws near when the new leaves finally emerge. Don't bring it inside. Leave it outdoors and keep an eye on it and just don't let it get too dry.
Joepole I would really like some pics, but you'd better hurry! The leaves are falling on most of my maples as we speak. But some still have some leaves. The upcoming cold front should take care of that.
