• 

Bringing in the scent of real pine indoors when the weather outside is cold warms the cockles of any heart.

An artificial tree tells another story. Even the most natural looking one takes forever to decompose. The American Christmas Tree Association in one study, recommends at least 10 years of using an artificial tree to raise its green quotient above cut trees. Trends in tree colors change every year, ranging from evergreen to red, to silver. Storing them is often a difficult task. However, these are getting very life-like, and innovative companies attempt to find easier ways to set up and store these trees.

Live trees are an option for some.

This year we chose to do something different. We bought several dwarf 3 feet Alberta spruce varieties. Using fairy lights and mini ornaments, we decorated all to place them in several locations. Odd number trees on dining table, a single one on the kitchen island, a couple on the front porch; we literally punctuated our home with these mini live trees.

I have a large yard, and I am fortunate to source my firs, pines, and holly as natural decorations. I also bought a taller live Aleppo pine for the central piece. I will plant this in my yard when Christmas this year is done.

Decorating outdoor trees with larger ornaments is another way to celebrate the season.

‘Tis hard to repeat this as a tradition, for how many trees can one plant in smaller yards? Unless you make merry with more friends of course.

For early Christmas gatherings or gifts, I hand out the fully decorated dwarf trees to friends possessing yards and green thumbs.

If you like the idea of using live trees, there’s also the possibility of renting. Some of these companies deliver and pick up live trees to your door for a fixed rate. After the holiday, they’re picked up, and the companies sell out the trees to landscapers. Here’s one example

Living Christmas

However, it may be worthwhile to check if such companies include your zip code.

For those opting for cut Christmas tree, finding one with a cause close to your heart is another option. For example, a friend of mine buys out of the local lot to benefit the Kiwanis.

One year, we cut a small tree growing under the foot of a large one. It had no hope, and we decorated that ethereal one with very light ornaments.

To incorporate a bit more greenness in your act, try to go local instead of shipping evergreens from distant states.

Celebrate the holiday your way; with merriment and gift-giving, in ways that are religious, spiritual, or simply respecting another faith. It can be a celebration of winter or a wonderful holiday. Celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones. While wishing for peace on earth and goodwill to all, let’s also remember to extend some to the green, green trees.