O Christmas Tree

We have a family tradition of cutting down a real Christmas tree at a Christmas tree farm the day after Thanksgiving.  Unfortunately this year, that was the day Everett woke up with a fever.  We were bummed Everett was sick but wanted to keep our tradition somewhat alive so we put together a little Everett-friendly felt tree instead.

We had intentions of cutting down a tree once Everett felt better, but he got so sick we realized we wouldn't get out to cut down a tree anytime soon. Therefore, we decided to be flexible with our Christmas tree tradition and buy a tree from a parking lot.  I have always scoffed at doing this because if you're going to get a real tree why not go all the way and get it from a farm?! It's such a cool experience.  But I was humbled and I realized that there are perfectly legitimate reasons why one would purchase a pre-cut tree.  My dad ended up going with me while Tom was at school and my mom was with the kids.  Home Depot actually had a nice selection and we quickly (because it was SO COLD) scored a decent tree. 

I was worried about all of the trees being damaged (like how this one is flat on one side), but my dad informed me that once it warms up in the house the branches fall back into place.  He was right. 

Although the Christmas tree tradition didn't play out as I thought, it was fun to get the tree with my dad and experience something new.  My dad even set it up for us so the tree could start to defrost and fall into place.  What a guy!  By the time the evening approached we were ready for the much anticipated event of decorating our tree.  

 I was a bit nervous about having Everett help with a lot of fragile ornaments, but he did an awesome job.  We all had so much fun, maybe with the exception of Asher who was grumpy and sleepy for the event. 

E pulled up the chairs to the tree by himself so he could help hang more ornaments. 

This year we also opted for a new tree topper.  Previously we had one that was multi-colored and flashed a lot so it drove us nuts.  This one is much better. 

I also set up my small "Grammy Jo" tree of ornaments from my grandma's tree.  I use to love looking at her tree full of these awesome glass ornaments and so I'm thankful to have a few at my house to remember her by.  

This year got Everett a little Christmas tree for his room!  It is decorated with none other than Thomas the Train ornaments and Angry Birds.  

Next year we hope to rekindle our Christmas tree tradition, but I have to say the parking lot tree isn't so bad! It was affordable, convenient, and looks pretty nice.  It's not the same as cutting one down yourself, but it was a good alternative for this crazy winter season of sickness we are having.