O Christmas Tree

We were very, very lucky this year: instead of paying to fly five people across the country, we got to sit at home and play host to my family for Christmas! We were so excited to have everyone here.

My parents were the first to arrive, showing up just in time for Dad's birthday. In celebration, we let Seth ditch school and headed off on a series of adventures, the major one being finding the perfect Christmas tree!

Cutting down a tree was a big deal in my family. I remember going with my parents and grandparents and spending a lot of time hunting for the right tree. Our move to Arizona put an end to that fun, so I was excited for my kids to have a chance to cut down a tree with Grandpa Russell.

We had the entire farm to ourselves (benefits of ditching school).

Seth scouts for a good patch of trees.

Aaron hitches a ride with Grandma

Grandma was not expecting to be on baby hauling duty

"Umm...why did we stop?"

"You think I'm going to get out and walk? Ha. Ha,"

Catherine takes a turn hauling the sled

As does truant Seth

Have we found the one?

Grandpa consults with Aaron about the quality of this tree

It might have been a little windy...

Mommy & Aaron

It's pretty clear where that awesome hair came from.

Aaron is concerned about the tree on the van.

Headed home with his new tree!

Of course, we had to stop at Broom's Bloom for some crab soup and ice cream. Minus the parts where Catherine tried to sever her fingers in a heavy metal door and Dad somehow got the wrong ice cream flavor, it was wonderful. Crab soup is always wonderful.

That evening we had the official party. Totally unprompted, Seth designed and executed a treasure hunt for Grandpa. He was so proud of himself! 

Grandpa finds the treasure!

Helping Grandpa open his gifts

Lighting the candle assortment

Grandpa & grandkids, ready to party!

So glad we could have him here to celebrate with us.