The Perfect Christmas Tree

Every year we go out and cut down a Christmas tree.  It is a treasured tradition for my children.  On this particular day it was super cold and very windy.

We went early, before the crowds, and took the wagon ride out to the rows and rows of Douglas Firs.  Even though it was bitter cold, the kids were in no hurry to settle on the first one they saw.

We searched and searched until we found the perfect tree.

After Molly cut down the tree we went into the barn for hot cocoa and coffee.

When we got home and put the tree up, it was just a bit too tall.

This happens every year, just like in the book, "Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree".  This is one of my favorite books from childhood about Mr. Willowby who received a tree that was too tall for his parlor, so he lopped off the top!  The discard made its way to Miss Adelaide, the.upstairs maid.  Then off to Tim, the gardener, Barnaby Bear, Frisky Fox, Benjamin Rabbit, and finally to Mistletoe Mouse who, of course, lived with Mr. Willowby. 

This is a very sweet Christmas tale of sharing for children of all ages and one we read every year! (and  it makes me wonder which animal in our yard will use our tree top this year)