A New Family Tradition?

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to go with a group of new friends

to pick out our Christmas tree. . . 

not just from Wal-mart or Home Depot,

but from a Christmas tree farm in the mountains! 

It was freezing + raining. . . in fact by the end I think there were snow flurries,

 but we loved every cold, wet minute! 

First, we took our time looking around for the perfect tree.

Pretty quick the children found one they liked.

In fact, I was pulling for a different one, but got out-voted!

I was more than happy to let them choose. . .   

. . . as my friend reminded me that pretty soon they will be grown,

and may not be as anxious and excited to be involved in the process!

The one we found (pictured to the right of us) had a super full, round bottom-half,

and thinned out a bit at the top. It was very uniquely pretty.

And so the fun began. . . the MEN got out the saw and started at it:

SUCCESS!!

We watched our tree have it's needles "shaken out" and then wrapped.

Dad had a time getting it secured on our van, but again, was quite successful!! 

While dad worked on getting the tree secure, we warmed our hands by the fire in the cabin,

 and sipped hot apple cider. . . and then visited with Santa!! (pictures to come)

Even though it was overcast and rainy, it was so beautiful. 

I loved the smell, the fog, and the misty outline of the distant trees. 

So romantic. 

It reminded me of what I imagine Forks to be like. . .

and made me want to read Snow Falling on Cedars! 

I LOVE the Northwest.

The tree is now decorated and looks BEAUTIFUL!! 

We'll see if the tradition sticks.