Celebrate Snow

Gathering the Tree

Today; tree day! It was a warm and sunny day, a perfect day to head to the mountains for a Christmas tree! Gloves and a warm coat seemed enough --- but as the mountains came into view, snow could be seen at the highest points. Oh dear, I should have brought my boots! As we traversed up the mountain, we were glad for four-wheel drive as the snow appeared and got deeper and deeper. We arrived on the mountaintop on a day filled with perfect displays of light and shadow; sunshine and clouds on ridges and bowing, snow-laden trees. It was like arriving at another world.

I really did miss my boots as we started trekking through the woods in search of the perfect tree. An foot of new snow and my Nike's made a cold combination! But finding that perfect tree was important, so I followed in Brent's tracks as we hiked through our woods. A perfect tree means one that not only makes a pretty Christmas tree, but one that won't be missed in the woods. So, a tree that might grow to crowd out another, or is in a hidden hollow is what we looked for.

Others had been through the woods before us; we followed deer, elk, squirrel, and bear tracks as they wove through the woods. Each year we talk about marking a Christmas tree when we can see it without snow, but somehow we never get it done. This year was no exception. Brent carried a broom to brush off snow as we looked for a tree that wasn't too lopsided, crooked, or sparse in spots.

Eventually we found the one; the perfect tree in a spot where it wouldn't be missed. We are quite particular about trees. Those growing in prominent or sparse places in our woods are nurtured. But in far corners of the densest woods or where crowding is happening, they can be cut to allow light to come in or to give space for little trees to grow. Brent brushed off our find and it seemed straight and symmetrical. We hiked back to the cabin to get the pick-up and chainsaw, then returned to the 'perfect tree' to cut down and bring back to grace our home.

Isn't it pretty? It's safely home, soon to be graced with lights and ornaments. The adventure of getting the tree was as fun as decorating it will be. It was a good day.

Christmas Chai Hot Chocolate

Christmas Chai Hot Chocolate

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup soy milk
1 chai tea bag
1 (.55 ounce) package instant hot chocolate mix*

Stir the water and milk together in a microwave-safe mug. Cook on high in the microwave for 1 1/2 minutes. Remove, and add the chai teabag. Allow tea to steep about 2 minutes. Remove the tea bag, and stir in the hot chocolate mix.

*vegan alternatives available; check at health food store

Magic Wand of Christmas

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.

~Norman Vincent Peale ~

Christmas Traditions

It's time to think about Christmas! How I admire my neighbors and my blogging friends who are prepared and decorated for Christmas the day after Thanksgiving. I'm not one of those people. Instead, I tend to savor Thanksgiving for as long as I can before I move on to the next holiday. But I think my week of savoring needs to end and I should move along! Before I know it, Christmas will be here and past!

I remember grade school days when mom and dad were busy teachers; sister and I busy students at school. It wasn't until Christmas holiday that we decorated for the season, putting up a Christmas tree decorated with homemade ornaments and paper chains. Once the tree was up, the household took on an air of secrecy, as we were a 'homemade Christmas' family --- and sewing, gluing, hammering, and sawing were the activities that filled the days before Christmas. Home-baked cookies and breads, Christmas lights, caroling parties, new dresses for the holiday, and cups of hot chocolate --- helped make a great holiday.

So. . .it's time to catch the spirit of the holiday! I'm ready.

Photo: Elm Street Antiques

End of Season

Autumn is such a colorful season! Although it's the first of December, winter is not yet officially here. I'm relishing autumn while I can. I love the vibrant red, orange, and yellow colors that nature provides. Bringing these colors inside helps to create a cozy and comforting atmosphere. It's the season for warm potato soup, a cup of hot tea, and fuzzy slippers. Here's a poem that describes some of the elements of autumn that I especially enjoy:

When the wind's blowing hard
Through the trees in your yard
I can promise you this ---
Tea and blankets are bliss.

~Eileen Spinelli