O Christmas Tree....

There is nothing like the smell of a real Christmas tree! This year we did what I hope will become a new tradition for us. We went to Ahrens Christmas tree farm, in Reo, and pick out our tree which was followed by Derrick cutting it down. It was so much fun searching for the perfect tree. Derrick and I had discussed it beforehand and decided that as long as they picked out a tree that would physically fit in our great-room then whatever the boys chose would be it. I can be a bit OCD so I was secretly struggling with this a bit...(charlie brown). We left Isabella at home with Nana because it was a pretty cold day and we were not exactly sure what to expect. As you can clearly see the boys did a FABULOUS job picking out our family tree. It is beautiful!! Each year as we put up our tree and decorate it we remind the children (and ourselves) that the tree is a symbol that reminds us of Jesus. The cross which was made of wood that came from a tree is the obvious connection we make. We even hang a nail in the very center of the tree to remind us that we are celebrating our Saviors birth. Our Savior that eventually died to save us. Christ is the gift that you receive over and over again throughout your life as he carries you thru the good, bad and all that is in between.

Have a very Merry CHRISTmas!!!!