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| As seen on Pinterest, Avanti Christmas Cards, 'City Christmas' |
We went out into the snowy, blowy afternoon to get our Christmas tree. A real tree. The first real tree we've had in years. When Rick and I got married 17 years ago, we bought a pretty tree that we could pack into a box at the end of each season. Mostly because I liked putting up the tree early in the season -- December 1st if possible. A real one would never have lasted that long without shedding every last needle before Christmas Eve.
That's not to say we didn't miss having a real tree, for my childhood is filled with magical memories of the Christmas tree. How it looked and smelled, and how its presence made us all feel so happy.
On this frosty, wind-whipping day, we were glad not to be tromping through forests or stomping our feet around a local Christmas tree farm. Our first stop was one of our favourite greenhouses, but they were already sold out. We then stopped at our local grocer's, and though their stock was dwindling, we found a lovely shaped fir that we wrestled into the back of the vehicle -- not sporting quite the same magical ambiance as observed in that too-romantic Christmas card above.
That's not to say we didn't miss having a real tree, for my childhood is filled with magical memories of the Christmas tree. How it looked and smelled, and how its presence made us all feel so happy.
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Our hearts grow tender with childhood memories and love of kindred,
and we are better throughout the year for having, in spirit,
become a child again at Christmas-time.
~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
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On this frosty, wind-whipping day, we were glad not to be tromping through forests or stomping our feet around a local Christmas tree farm. Our first stop was one of our favourite greenhouses, but they were already sold out. We then stopped at our local grocer's, and though their stock was dwindling, we found a lovely shaped fir that we wrestled into the back of the vehicle -- not sporting quite the same magical ambiance as observed in that too-romantic Christmas card above.
Yet, it only took a few seconds for the earthy, evergreen fragrance to
completely fill the car. And on the inside of me, I could feel the
giggle of happiness starting to stir. Just like when I was a girl.
“...freshly cut Christmas trees smelling of stars and snow and pine resin
- inhale deeply and fill your soul with wintry night...”
~ John Geddes, A Familiar Rain
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Soon the tree was scenting the whole house and we delighted in this gift of nature all evening. Making sure it had lots of water to drink as it acclimatized to our house. I'm grateful for its gift to us this Christmas -- something that will delight my mom and all my family when they come next week.
That was yesterday. Today we adorn it. Already I know in my heart that I don't want to deck this natural beauty in the usual way; perhaps something simpler. Lights, of course. And, for sure the vintage ornaments. Nothing too bling-bling. Something softer. We shall see ... will take photos and show the results.
A question for you: Do you have tree-trimming parties? I know it sounds like fun, but I just can't imagine having all kinds of people with all their own ideas gathered in one place to decorate my tree. I prefer decorating the tree on my own. Being happy with my own thoughts and musings as I pull out boxes and open lids, deciding which ornaments to use and where to hang them.
Now, if I had kids or grandkids around me, then that would make it an entirely different story. Family around the tree is absolutely necessary. Some of my best memories of Christmas is trimming the tree with my parents and siblings. When I asked the question, I was thinking of when people invite hosts of friends in for tree trimming parties. Just asking for fun.
I hope it's a beautiful day for you, one filled with glimpses of heaven in all sorts of unexpected places. It's just a few more sleeps now.
Hugs,
Brenda
xox
It's wonderful to have a real tree - the fragrance is so nice. I am not sure about the tree-trimming party - it might be fun if there were multiple trees to decorate and plenty of good food! I miss decorating the tree with my children - now it is just me and the Mr. and some very naughty pets who keep knocking down the ornaments! Looking forward to seeing your decorated tree. I'm sure it will be beautiful. xo Karen
ReplyDeleteLoved your post today about the "real" tree and Christmas past. The quote from Laura Ingalls Wilder is perfect. Wishing you a blessed and magical Holiday Season.
ReplyDeleteI am looking forward to the beautiful real Christmas tree!!I am sure the decorations will all be very beautiful!! See you soon!!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful weekend we have to enjoy! Holiday hugs, Diane
ReplyDeleteMy daughter got married in October, so this is the first Christmas she hasn't been living in my home. She and I always decorated the tree together, and with her gone, I wasn't even excited about decorating this year. Alas, I decided to decorate on a day when she and her husband could come over (they live about a half hour from us). So, while the guys watched football, daughter and I decorated the tree and baked cookies. I'm sure that will become my new tradition.
ReplyDeleteI'm allergic to pine, so we have to use an artificial tree. I do love the fragrance of a real tree, but I don't like the headaches and congestion that go with it for me.
Can't wait to see photos of your tree.
Blessings,
Patti
Loved your post, as always. I agree with you about a tree trimming party. To me it is such a quiet, special time and I always enjoy remembering the ornaments and how they came to us.
ReplyDeleteOne of the most beautiful naturally decorated trees I ever remember seeing was one of a friend of mine, when we lived in coastal Virginia. Ann was an extremely creative soul, along with being a fine gardener. In the late summer she began cutting and drying her hydrangeas. When it came Christmas, she decorated her tree with white lights, her hydrangeas and small pine cones. It was just beautiful! (She cut the stems of the hydrangeas short and just placed them in and on the tree)
I know yours will be lovely and will be looking forward to the pictures.
Merry Christmas,
Sandra
Sandra, Your friend's tree sounds quite lovely. I used to put baby's breath and dried roses years ago. I love white lights and have used them for decades now, adding deep red silk poinsettias and gold ornaments.
DeleteThis year I thought I used coloured lights, so we'll see how that turns out.
Thanks for stopping by. B
There is nothing quite so evocative as the scent of a fresh pine treee.
ReplyDeleteEvocative ... yest that's the right word!
DeleteA tree-trimming party sounds great fun!x
ReplyDeleteIt will be fun to see what you decided upon for your tree. Last year was the first in our whole lives that we got a fake tree. Whenever I look at it, my first inclination is to water it! Then, 'Oh yeah.' I do miss the fragrance of a real tree, and we usually put a real tree on our front porch. I hope you have a wonderful week ahead and a blessed Christmas! xo
ReplyDeleteReal trees are the norm around here. Nothing else will do. I've been puzzled at the idea of a trim the tree party, too. There's so much stuff around; boxes all over the living room floor, the hassle of finding hangers and lights, etc. When the children were home, decorating the tree was a family event. Now, with just the two of us, we make our own traditions, and decorate together.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to seeing your tree.