Chopping down a Christmas tree

It's been soooo busy, so much to do, running out of time... Blogging unfortunately, has lost its priority on the 'things-to-do-list', at least temporarily. That being said, here's a much overdue update. Also included are many, many pictures.

Such a fun-filled jam-packed weekend we've had! Saturday, we went to our friend's house for some holiday cheer. Such a fun time! Then, Sunday morning we had what is slowly starting to be known as the traditional 'Rama not-so-frequent-weekend-off-together pancake breakfast'. After our morning feast, we journeyed out to Thomas Tree Farm in North Gower to choose, cut and haul back our very own Christmas tree. (So glad we waited to go today in only -3 degree weather versus yesterday's -20 degree weather!) Also included was hot chocolate, yummy cookies, a bonfire, and a kids play structure. Not to mention a tractor-drawn wagon ride and a horse-drawn hay ride too! And the kids, oh the kids! Bella was in heaven!

We're new at this whole chopping down your own Christmas tree thing, so we departed for home much wiser, and we are much more aware of what to expect for next year. Like for instance, we now know to go earlier in the Christmas season for a better selection of trees (you'll see why later). And how to choose the best tree....so many things to consider! Also, we MUST remember to bring a sled for Bella the next time. She constantly returned to the play structure to be with the other kids, (who wouldn't?) and it would have been much easier to entice her to come with us for a sled ride to go searching for a tree. (I have two of them sitting in the garage and thought of bringing one, but the idea got lost in the chaos prior to leaving this morning.) Oh well, next year. Also required next time, snow tires. Yes, snow tires. We slid into a snowbank and had to be pushed out. Nothing serious, but it stressed me out waaaayy too much. Am I a freak? I think not, but Ed thinks so. Notice I didn't say who was driving. One clue...it wasn't me! (har har.)

Making friends. Saying "hi baby!" to a little 5 mos old baby girl laying flat on a sleigh ride with her mommy.

A horsey!

The fam on the hayride (self-portrait).

Bella, searching aimlessly for that perfect Christmas tree. (Hint: It doesn't exist!)

We found one! And boy, it sure isn't perfect! (Poor thing!)

Papa ties it on to the car for the ride to it's new home.

The tree's new home. (Where's Ysabella??)

A sad looking tree...a little sparse here and there... (Wasn't there a Charley Brown episode with a similar theme??)

And the final product for this year! Not bad, considering. Bella was already in bed by the time this was finished so she'll get to take a look at it tomorrow. (Although I honestly don't think she'll even notice that it's all decorated now.)

A very tiring day, but productive. Back to work tomorrow for my very long work stretch. Still so much to do before the holidays, when will I find the time?

I will leave you with another video...the truth about what Bella really thought about the horse(s).