Oh Christmas Tree

As the Aretha Franklin song goes O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How lovely are thy branches. As I admire my own Christmas tree, I sing this song. But it wasn’t love-at-first-sight. For the past 30 plus years, my husband and his family have been going into the woods to cut down their Christmas tree. An affair lasting all day. As we entered the woods, it became apparent this was going to be challenging. Perhaps impossible. Whenever they saw a tree, the kids would shout, “What about this one?” “Too tall,” we would reply. Or, “that’s two trees.” Finally, we came upon a seven-foot tree. With fairly even branches, the pine needles were still green and healthy. Yes, this was going to have to do. Fondly, the kids named him Albert.

As we entered the nearest town and stopped at the light, the car in front of us began snapping selfies with our tree. I became concerned. Did the tree become untied? Is it sliding off our roof? What happened? Displease with her selfie, she propped herself out of the passenger window and continued taking pictures. Soon began the questions from our kids. I prayed the light would change so we could check our tree. Finally, after what felt like forever, the light changed. As we stepped out of our car we saw why it looked so funny. Our poor Christmas tree looked like broomstick attached to our roof. Quickly, I forgave the woman and her selfies.

During the rest of the drive home, I worried we made a mistake. With visions of cutting Albert’s branches and making a garland. In my mind, we already bought a new tree. Perhaps a full, beautiful Nobel Fir from Oregon. Yes, that’s what we will do, get a beautiful full tree and ditch this broomstick. But something happened when we arrived home and placed Albert in our tree stand. I fell in love with this tree. Truthfully, it is my favorite tree. So elegant and understated, simple. Our tree reminds me what Christmas is really about. Enjoying the simple things and being with family.

Two items that were helpful with making our tree sparkle!