We go to the same Christmas tree farm every year. I nearly broke tradition to try a new one, but at the last minute I was won over by the simplicity and lack of commercialism (i.e.: Santa) that we always find here.
So this year we rode on the same trailer behind the same tractor in the midst of the same fields. There were no lines, nothing for sale other than trees and stands, no light show, no Santa, no elves. We didn't miss any of it.
We practically had the place to ourselves as the kids played chase between rows of baby trees.
Nanno made their year when she bought them their very own itty bitty tree. We put it next to our front door. It was the first to be decorated, and they check on it throughout the day now. Nanno's are terribly good at making little ones feel special.
Levi even got to help cut it down....little boy heaven...
Picking out "Mama's tree" wasn't nearly as fascinating, though...
Unless you ask Lillian. She was pretty into it...
We loaded our trees up and rode back on the tractor to measure and pay. When the kids went running up to the candy striped sign I was reminded of how much I love this tradition. Every year...same picture...same kids...a little taller each time.
And, because I like looking at old pictures of my mother. Here's one for my kiddos to look at someday. At least they'll know I was really there.
Three days later, and we finally have the big tree decorated and the ornament boxes stashed away.
Tomorrow we'll start opening small Advent doors, reading daily scriptures and Advent books, and preparing our hearts for the coming of our Lord. I'm not sure who is more excited...me or the kids.
has become our traditional evening read. I believe this is our third year of it. Each story is short, and they all lead up to the birth of Jesus. This year we're also doing Truth in the Tinsel. For those who are familiar with Jesse Trees this is similar, but it's geared toward a younger crowd. It has a daily scripture and devotional along with instructions for simple ornaments and ideas for other activities to do with your kids. We are not doing every craft/activity that goes along with it. There is enough to do this time of the year without sending myself into a panic because I forgot to buy pipe cleaners! 
