Christmas Spirit

We trecked through a tree farm this late morning to find the perfect Christmas tree: a 7 ft. Blue Spruce (my favorite). Paul sawed it then we waited for the tractor with wagon to haul it down to get drilled & wrapped. There was complimentary hot cocoa (or cider) & cookies & a gift shop. When we got home, Paul set up the base we put the train set & the tree. Our old tree stand was leaking, so he's out buying a new one.

This afternoon, the girls (my mom, Hannah & I) went to a holiday house event. The park grounds, including the historic ironmaster's stone mansion & gazebo, were fully adorned in holiday style. Local businesses decorate trees & create displays. Proceeds go to the continued restoration of the propery which almost was condemned years ago. We've set up there the past two times, but coudn't manage to do so this year with another event going on (a Christmas shopping tour this week). This display was my favorite, done by a doll club & a lady we know. It was just darling. Even the old stuffed dog looked real! The dolls & teddy bears were having a tea party in front of the fireplace & tree trimmed in vintage decorations. Another clever tree display, from an optometrist, included a star made from old gold eyeglasses. At the end of the walk-through, there were refreshments in the old tenant house...so I've consumed far too many cookies for one day!

Now, we are preparing to get the lights on the tree & begin decorating it. Hannah is beside herself with excitement. As I've mentioned before, she is the spirit of Christmas! Last night we watched "It's a Wonderful Life" ...as one of my favorite sign/ornaments reads, "If I had any more Christmas cheer, I'd be spitting tinsel!"