Christmas tree 2007

Yesterday, as is our tradition, we went and got our Christmas tree, then stopped at Starbucks and each got a "special drink" (that's what the kids call it, since it's the only time of year we all go there and get our own drink!).

I think this year's tree is tied for the prettiest one we've ever gotten, rivaled only by a perfect Scotch pine we had one year when we lived in Illinois.

Decorating the tree was a little different this time since it was the first year that both kids were really into it. I am used to doing most of it by myself (Bruce's tradition is to take a nap while I do it!), but this year I mostly just sat by the ornament box to reattach ornament hooks and pass the ornaments out to the kids. It was a lot of fun and exciting to see the kids enjoying it so much.

David has asked several times if it's almost Christmas yet -- both of them think that since the tree is here, there's nothing stopping us from celebrating fully! David is my slavedriver this year -- this morning he has already pulled a decorations box over and opened it up for me...he doesn't see why I'm not hard at it yet! He also wants me to get outside and get those lights up...but at 31 degrees, I am NOT going outside until it warms up a little (yes, I admit it, I am a warm-weather southern wimp)!!!

It was heart-warming moment yesterday when we pulled our tree star out of the box...David's face lit up and he exclaimed, "A star, just like when Jesus was born!" It is exciting to see the true meaning of Christmas start to take root in their hearts...