12.04.2013

the non-christmas-tree expedition


We had grand plans on Sunday to go into the woods on our new property and cut our Christmas tree. We have it picked out, the weather wasn't too wild, it was December, and the weekend. However, from minute one on Sunday, the boys were arguing, whining, complaining, and generally being disagreeable. Just one of those days, you know? So we made it all of the way in to get the tree and then due to specifically prohibited uncooperation decided that that was it. We left without our tree, and we're waiting until next weekend. (When, if needed, I'll go in on my own, cut it down, and carry it home slung over my shoulder.) So here are some pictures from the un-Christmas tree expedition of 2013.



 Anyone know what these are?





The little tree in the wheelbarrow is one we cut to put outside by the back door, with some fun lights on it. The lights part hasn't exactly happened yet. Adam cut some lovely birch for me, which is also in that wheelbarrow! I was going to make an advent calendar from one of them. I can't find a picture, but you just stand the log vertically, write the numbers down the length of it, and slide a beaded bracelet to the right day. But when I set them up by the back door and considered the kind of weapon they could become inside the house, decided to leave them just as they were.

A few other fun things I've seen lately:

I loved this list of 18 things everyone should start making time for again.

We've been burning an advent candle each evening at supper again this year, similar to this one. I found a lovely beeswax one on Etsy last year and am sure you could make your own. The boys love it. Candlelight is definitely an upside to the many dark evening hours at this time of year.

Adam's been working on making a gingerbread house with the boys, following this tutorial on Simple Bites, which spaces the project out over several days, and makes it manageable for after school hours over the course of a week. I love when projects are fun, not overwhelming, and kid-friendly. (And when Adam takes charge and does the work of it all, which happens a lot around here.)

Happy Wednesday!





10 comments:

  1. More exquisite photos. Bet the boys slept well that night after all the hoopla and a day outside in the woods!

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    1. Thanks, Margaret! You're right. There's nothing like being outside to tire them out!

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  2. At least you got some lovely photos out of the expedition :) Loved the 18 things we should make time for again!

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    1. Thanks, Kristina! I thought the list was pretty great, too. :)

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  3. What a wonderful space to go romping around for a tree!
    Good luck for this weekend :)

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  4. Dear Sherrie,
    I just want to say thanks for all of the lovely posts that appear in my in-box from time to time. Your inspiring photos are soothing and reflective...just what I need to slow down for a bit on a busy work day.

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    1. Thank you so much, Bridget! Your comment brightened my day.

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  5. Anonymous12/13/2013

    Is it possible the blue berries you were wondering about are bayberries? I've never seen any in real life, at least that I'm aware of, but I did plant some from seed last year that I got from Richters Herbs. Here's a link: http://www.finegardening.com/plantguide/myrica-pensylvanica-northern-bayberry.aspx Angela G

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    1. Angela G, I think that's exactly what it is! Thank you so much. :)

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