Describe getting a Christmas Tree with your family as a child. How did you decorate it, when did you put it up etc.

I always loved getting the Christmas Tree with the family. We would go to a tree farm and spend a long time walking around looking for the perfect tree. Once we found the tree we wanted (and we all agreed on it) we would start cutting it down. Often times dad would get it started and then us kids would take our turn with the saw. The tree farm we went to in Washington had a little log cabin that we would go in and enjoy some apple cider and treats.

Once we got home dad and mom would get it in the tree stand and put the lights on it and then it was time to decorate it! Dad always turned on Christmas music (on the record player) while we decorated. We each had our favorite ornaments that we would put on the tree. We also would set out the nativity sets, the village and other decorations. It was an all evening affair. Our tree had colored lights and did not have a theme. Our tree had all the ornaments that we had collected/made throughout the year. I loved it because it had so many memories.

Usually one night (or multiple nights) before Christmas all of us kids would sleep downstairs in the room with the tree. I loved this tradition. It was a fun time to talk and laugh with my brother and sisters. When we all gather together at Christmas time we still carry on this tradition and now it is with siblings, spouces and nieces/nephews.

I remember one year when we went to cut our tree down I don't think we brought a measuring tape with us so we couldn't make sure the tree would fit in the house. we have a peaked ceiling and when we found the perfect tree we figured it would fit in the house. It didn't look too big. Well, when we got home and brought the tree in the house it went almost to the top of the peaked ceiling and was REALLY wide. We had to open the pocket doors so that the tree could branch out into the family room and living room. I actually think this was one of my favorite trees because we could enjoy it in both rooms! :)

One of my favorite things to do is sit in the room with the Christmas tree...all the lights off except for the tree lights and read Christmas stories...or just sit and ponder on the reason we celebrate Christmas. I love fresh trees! The smell is the best!