putting out the Christmas tree
Posted: January 10, 2014 Filed under: history | Tags: christmas trees, my history 15 CommentsI put the Christmas tree out. It stands at attention in the snow bank on the tree lawn. It was a good tree, had served us well. To leave it on it’s side, forlorn seemed unworthy disrespect.
I remember going out with my father to pick a tree. We would drive out to the country were a farmer would let us go across his land for a few dollars paid.
We would always find one that had a flaw, not the prettiest, but something that made it special. Maybe a bald spot, or a branch bending the wrong way.
I would cut only a full pulls before my child arms tired, and my father would finish and I would help him drag it back in the snow to home.
My sisters would complain that we never got the right tree, but they never understood, it was just the right one.
So I guess in so many words I am saying that in your poem is the power to bring forth old memories.
bwthoughts 
What a good story! Some of our most lovable traits are our quirky imperfections š
one year when you were little, little, little – or maybe not even here yet – we were late getting a tree. We got the last one at one of those lots and when we took it out, every single needle fell off the tree. We were stepping on pine needles until august the next year.
That was the year we got an artificial tree!
I have been away for a few days in Calgary, Alberta where it was minus 25 degrees. Now, I have a cup of hot tea beside me and am looking forward to catching up on your posts. I especially appreciated, “saying that in your poem is the power to bring forth old memories.” While I acknowledge that we should live in the present and look forward to the future moments, I believe that is it our memories that have the most profound influence on the present and act as guideposts as we move along…
I’m looking forward to our discussions of 2014!
Wonderful story. I’ll try to remember to not look for flaws, instead see the beauty of them. What a great lesson to learn at such young age.
I admit it took me some time ( decades ) before the message sunk in….
Final two lines are the only way to end such a fine piece of evocative writing and reflection.
A lovely memory. Side by side time between a father & his son is always just right. I love your tinsel comment. š
Blessings ~ Wendy
Character makes us unique. You and your son know this. Did your daughter ever learn?
all our flaws combined are perfect!
or, never understimate the power of tinsel š
haha!
I love the idea that our flaws are what make us special.
yes, funny where life lessons come from isn’t it.
Wonderful story, it brought back many memories.
Thanks Susan – It was a special time for us.