Tree Hunt 2006

The rain broke off for a few days, so we knew it was time to find a Christmas tree.

It's amazing how many people opt for an artificial tree around here--the Christmas tree capitol of the world. Instead of supporting an important, local industry, they choose to throw their money into the coffers of the evil big_boxes. I've been reading the Journal of Discourses every commuting-morning for the last few months, and though there are many unusual--if not controversial to the modern LDS train-of-thought--words spoken from the pulpit (President Hinkley would NEVER remotely speak about most of the things that Brigham Young and his contemporaries did), they are interesting and valuable to read. But one idea that stands out is that B. Young condemns the man who has 10 cows but can only use one--he said the man will be damned in the next life because he was denying another man--one willing to earnestly work--from making a living. I think it is easier to get around this today, being that money is the current exchange method, and it is easier to save money in a bank than to keep cows in the field . . .

Anyway, the muddy-red-clay hills of South Salem are dotted with acres of tree farms, and we found one a few miles south of Kuebler and west of Liberty. The four of us loaded into the back of a trailer, complete with hay bails for bench seats, and the owners hauled us with their ATV to the top of the hill. We ended up walking back down most of the hill before finding a suitable tree, but not before both the boys had slipped and fell in the mud. Aaron actively participated by carrying the measuring stick, ensuring that we would stay under seven feet and pay $10 less, and getting lost amongst the trees. Meg found one that we all agreed looked good, she got the cutting going, and I fell the tree a few seconds later (unfortunately, no funny videos of post-tree-cutting this year). Having a roof rack on Bernice made it easier (and warmer) to haul our prize home. After dinner with the missionaries, we all helped decorate the tree with, much to my surprise, a large amount of decorations (where did they all come from?). I suppose I can now wrap the presents Meg bought for herself for Christmas . . .