O Christmas Tree
As I mentioned in my last post here, our only Black Friday purchase this year was our Christmas tree.
Picking out a Christmas tree has been a BIG DEAL ever since I was a little girl. I have many fond memories of getting bundled up, climbing in dad’s truck, and going to pick & cut down a tree. I picked, he did the cutting, it was a good system. When we would get home, mom took over the supervision of tree decorating, but still gave me plenty of free rein. It remember it being one of my favorite days each year, and still is.
Our family ALWAYS had a live tree, and that is a tradition I plan to continue. I have nothing against artificial trees, I am amazed by how real some of them look! Yes, live trees require some upkeep and can get a little messy but to me it is worth the trouble (Remind me of this on 12/27 while I am cursing the needles on the floor). It is all about personal preference. Mark grew up having an artificial tree, except for one year which apparently was enough of an experiment for his mother. At first, he just indulged me, but now he enjoys the experience of having a live tree and it has become a tradition of our own.
Once the tree is set up in the stand, that is where Mark lets me take over the decorating, with the exception of putting the bow on top…he is 6’1″ and I am 5’3″, it is just plain common sense. I like using a combination of red & white lights, along with red & gold ornaments in different shapes, sizes & designs. Our tree skirt was an auction find.
No matter the lighting, or how many attempts, I have a hard time taking a picture that captures how pretty it is in person. To me, the tree is the centerpiece of Christmas decorations. It makes me smile every time I walk in the door and it is always a little sad for me when it comes time to take it down.
Do you have any special traditions revolving around your Christmas tree? Do you prefer live or artificial trees?
By The Poole 