Christmas Tree Hunting

Every year it's tradition for my family to cut down our Christmas tree the weekend following Thanksgiving. We've been going to the same farm for at least 15 years and this year was no different. 

The word must be getting out that Snickers Gap has the best trees because every year it has been busier and busier. This year, for the first time. we had to wait in line for 15 minutes to even enter the parking lot. To be fair, they really do have the best trees.

Cole was excited to be there and even though I had a "mom fail" and his legs were cold because I put him in thin pants, he smiled and laughed most of the time we were there.

This picture cracks me up every time I see it. Lily was just happy to be there and content to watch from the carrier. 

(She reminds me of the little brother in "A Christmas Story" when the mom dresses him so warm he can't put his arms down.)

Lance scouting ahead to find us the perfect tree.

Cole made sure to step on ALL the crunchy snow along the way.

I think Vera was more excited than anyone to be Christmas tree hunting. She loves going on outings.

We found our tree in record time. I think it took us about 20 minutes, as opposed to an hour like it usually does.

George took the first turn.

Then Lance.

Even Jude took a turn.

And Daddy finished it off.

Jude was Daddy's helper and went with him to get the tree shaken and bound while the rest of us stayed in the trees while my mom looked for one and we waited for the Calderwoods to arrive.

Lance and Grandpa Glenn made a good team sawing back and forth.

Cole really wanted a turn, too.

Sawing: it's serious business.

They found one! 

The Calderwoods arrived just in time to see them cut it down.

Hauling it to the car.

While we waited for Grandma's tree to be shaken and bound, the kids got a snack.

Hot apple cider!

The original sign from when we first started going.

Brothers. :)

Group shot!

Our Brazilian friend came along for the experience, too! 

This was the part Cole the kids were most excited about: the tractor ride back to the parking lot.

Mission complete!