A little over a week ago, the first Saturday in December, we had our fifth annual Hunt Christmas Extravaganza! French toast bagels and cream cheese and then off to the tree farm. Having it every year, on the same weekend, is such a great tradition. It forces us to attempt to predict how hard that winter will be on us. Last year it was snowy, this year sunny. Jackets hardly necessary. Does this mean this winter will follow suit? Snow will be scarce? Sun plentiful? Probably not. No rhyme no reason. Shame on me for thinking so!
We’ve been at this sign, taking this very picture, for five years now. Plus one kid, then plus another. It’s really special, and something I’m adamant about doing. William and Lindsey look less enthused this year than in year’s past, but they still play along. A mother must document the memories! Must! Parker was littler than Anders the first time we took it. Ah, now I’m getting all nostalgic-weepy.
This was Anders’ first year taking part in the tradition. Of course, he has no idea what’s going on. Why are we on a tractor? Why are you cutting down that tree? We narrate for him. But I like knowing he’ll be here year after year, part of the fun, part of the family. Such a sweet part. Even if he’s not always happy to be in the picture (evidence below).
It never takes us less than 15 minutes (maybe closer to 20) to choose a tree. We go back and forth. This one! No, bare spot. This one? Too tall. Too short. Too round. It’s a little bit funny, a little bit ridiculous. Whoever spots the winning one no doubt feels a little more special than those who’s tree was neglected that year. I think Lindsey might’ve spied the winner this year. Or both of us at the same time?
We came home, and decorated, listened to music, ate turkey clubs. At the end of the day, Steve and I plopped down on the couch, exhausted with a glass of wine. I’ve seen it change over the years–William’s a little less interested in the decorating part than he was as a little kid. I know it’s normal, but sometimes I wish things would just stay the same. That’s where my head’s at these days anyway.
I hope you’re enjoying these days leading up to Christmas. I hope that you’re feeling at peace, and counting your blessings. There are many. Merry Christmas to you!
And merry christmas to you! I love this time of year, getting the tree, maintaining and creating traditions. It's all so wonderful. And if we can keep from getting consumed by all the busyness of it, it can be quite peaceful.
What a fun tradition!
Liz @ ShoppingMyCloset.com
So now it's officially christmas season 😉 I really like your tradition and your posts about it – the last picture of you and Parker is so cute. Our little son takes christmas very serious here, so he is working his hardest to force the christmas feelings on his teenager siblings – I'm sure christmas songs were sung more enthusiastically but it's nice anyway. Have a Merry Christmas too!
Love that you do this every year. I LOVE traditions…even if they do change a little 🙂 We had our first babe in June and cut down our first tree this year. I am hoping its a tradition that sticks!
That first photo—gorgeous.