The smell of Christmas

Wow! This morning I awoke to the smell of Christmas. No, I haven't been baking, but since last year's pre-lit tree was non functional, I decided I needed a new one. I emptied and moved the hutch (a 2 hr job) and pushed it over about 8 feet to free up a spot under the high point of the living room ceiling (12 feet.) So far so good. I headed for Menards.

Now here is inflation shock at it's best. A pre-lit 10-12 foot artificial tree cost between $300 and $600. OK, we are NOT doing THAT. I went outside and asked the gentleman named Roger about getting a 10 to 12 foot live tree. He said I was too late. The trees that tall are snarfed up very quickly for businesses, churches etc. Live and learn I guess. So I asked what he DID have. He had a balsam fir that was in the 7-9 foot range, bound like a pole so you couldn't get any idea of what it looked like, and a very reasonable $20.00. I took it.

The tree came home and I called Eric and Andy to help erect it. It is about 10 feet tall, very straight and majestic-- and before we were done, we had sticky little needles all over. It looks great in it's spot and actually fulfills a childhood wish of mine for a really BIG tree. (Thank you Randy Pausch-- "The Last Lecture" ) The crowning triumph came this morning when I awakened to the unmistakable smell of Christmas tree. It was a great incentive to roll out of bed and go check it out. Now as I sit here with my tea, I am somewhat inspired to get on with cards and presents. I will take a picture of it today-- but in the meantime, here is a progress shot of my many pairs of fingerless mitts to be gifted this Christmas.

Have a great day. Do consider doing what you've always dreamed of-- and in lieu of that-- help someone else achieve what they've always dreamed of doing. Both are extremely satisfying.
Christmas Love, Noanie