Christmas Tree Hunting

We have the annual tradition of cutting down a tree.  It is a riot!  I grew up with an artificial tree since my sister has terrible allergies to real ones, but after I started dating Ryan (over 13 Christmases ago, gulp) I was able to go and cut down a tree with his family.  I absolutely love the Christmas season and this is a tradition that has formed so many great memories.  We start the day by getting breakfast as a family.  Ryan's mom and step-dad, his sister, her husband and their son along with us and our two girls.  We have gone to Big Boy for the past four years and always stop for a photo out front.

This year the weather was a little less than desirable, there was unexpected rain that settled over us as we ate breakfast.  Determined to get our tree, we pushed on, praying that the rain would stop. It wasn't looking good at all, the rain was coming down hard.  We pulled into the tree farm and the rain stopped!!  We then proceeded to bundle up and head into the barn so we could wait for the next wagon.  While we were waiting, Santa walked in the door.  Claire is a very loud and outgoing girl, around those she knows.  Around strangers, she is typically the exact opposite.  Apparently, Santa is not a stranger as she told him exactly what she wanted and sat on his lap for a picture.  Victory!

I didn't want to attempt to get Natalie out and back in, so she didn't sit with Santa - bad mom ;)

This tree farm we visit is awesome, they have horse drawn covered wagons that take you out to the acres of trees. They also have a wonderful selection of well pruned trees, which we were very thankful for since we were fighting the clock with the rain.  We were able to select trees in record time.  All Fraser Firs - our typical tree of choice.   

Claire liked this one best and we agreed!

Grandpa & Grandma

Uncle Justin, Aunt Jessica & Cameron

Then we headed back to the barn on the wagons and soon we were on our way home with our Christmas tree!  The worst part of getting a real tree is the prep work after you get it home.  I get so excited to decorate that I become impatient.  Both girls went down for naps, Ryan brought the tree inside and we were able to get the lights on it before they woke up.  

Claire was excited to hang a few ornaments, but got bored rather quickly.  We decided to finish the decorating after bedtime.  We had Christmas music playing in the background and a wonderful time together while we finished up the tree.

Natalie was intrigued the first day, but has since left the tree alone.  However, I am in no hurry to get any gifts under the tree since I know she's going to LOVE the sound of the paper.  For now, this is how it sits.  I love the nights were we are able to just let the light of the tree illuminate the house.