All is Calm, All is Bright 

I tend to like what looks to me to be an old-fashioned tree. I think it's the compact and sturdy look of a fir that appeals to me. 

There are many cut-your-own Christmas tree places all over Ulster County and in fact I listed and sold a 70+ acre Christmas tree farm in Marbletown this summer. It can be a lot of fun to go out and tromp around, finding and cutting the perfect tree. Getting out under a big sky with the birds and the clouds, especially in the snow, makes the day memorable The kids especially enjoy it and you know that tree is fresh! 

In years past, I have also gone to local farm stands, like Davenport's and Wallkill View Farms, to get trees and they have always been lovely. But this year, I went out on the second weekend in December (crazy early for me, planning ahead for once) and got perhaps my favorite tree ever at the Town of Lloyd Fire Department on Old New Paltz Road, where the firemen sell trees as a fundraiser. Almost all of the fire departments are volunteer up here so it feels good to be able to benefit them and, I have to say, their trees were spectacular. 

I have a rule (that I always break but it still keeps me in line) that the tree can't be bigger than I am. Many of the trees at the Town of Lloyd Fire Department looked like they were ready for Rockefeller Center, or at least for a house with an atrium or two-story front hall. There were also a few little scraggly things that you might use on your porch or yard display. But there were three that were just about perfect for me and I think I may have gotten my favorite tree ever this year. It is just right. 

Wishing everyone a joyous and peaceful holiday season!