Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Holiday Decor and the Empty Nest

A few years ago, I ordered an artificial Christmas tree from a reputable catalog.
It wasn't inexpensive, so I thought I was getting a good one.
I was wrong.
Think Charlie Brown's tree, but fake.
At least it came pre-lit.
And in its own storage bag.
That's a good thing, right?
So, right before Augie went back to school after Thanksgiving,
I had him bring our Christmas tree up from the basement.
He dutifully placed it in the living room window.
And he left.
The tree sat in the living room for three weeks.
Waiting to be adorned.
But Squazz and I had a moment of genius:
Let's just move it outside!
No decorations needed.
That way we are able to continue to relax in our child-free way.
And we can see it every time we drive down the road.
It's quite festive.
Don't you think?
Wonder if the kids will notice there is no tree in the house...

24 comments:

Daryl said...

It looks lovely .. and I think its the perfect way to show it off! A lot classier than your neighbor's inflatable holiday decor .. did they put it up/out yet?

shrink on the couch said...

hmm, why didn't I think of that? there wouldn't be hundreds of little needles all over my living room floor.

Joanie said...

What a great idea...you are able to enjoy it without all the stress! Looks beautiful!

Magpie said...

I think that's kind of genius.

Nurse Nancy said...

Love the way it looks but I don't think you are getting away with no tree in the house.

abb said...

Hmmm...don't know if you'll get away with no tree. Time will tell!

big hair envy said...

I think it's beautiful and all, BUT, I predict there will be some last minute shopping at the local tree farm...be sure to check for squirrels;)

Karen Deborah said...

Cool idea! I put a pre lit Charlie tree outside last year and the wind kept blowing it over. It was quite pathetic. Yours looks safe on the porch. I like your room!

Hang up a fresh wreath for some nice scent and a bit of cheer.

Tammy said...

I think it looks beautiful out on the deck! I'm predicting the kids will want a tree inside...

Daryl said...

Hey didya see Hilary cited your Christmas Memory post as one of the Posts of the Week! Congrats!

Egghead said...

yep great idea...but if that were my house you can bet it would be noticed. The kids have this idea in their heads no matter how old they get that things should remain the way they remembered as children.

Debbie said...

Darn good idea!! See? There are some benefits. I just hope when opening presents outside on Christmas morning you don't freeze your butts off! ROFL JK

Mine is up in the bay window again. No decorations, just fake tree & lights. Long as I get to hug my boy? Who cares :)

I'm proud of you woman!!

Keetha said...

That is a great idea! Necessity, mother of invention, etc.

The tree looks great.

Country Girl said...

Yes, it looks great! Now you need to build a tree that comes out of your wall. Like I have!

I think it's a wonderful idea that you put the tree outside. And your room looks wonderful from here.

Deb said...

I hear a rebellion a coming! My grown children revert back to their childhood if I don't hang the stockings in the "correct" order on the mantel. Good luck!

Michael said...

Brilliant! I love it. :)

mom x 2 said...

Looks beautiful to me :) What a great idea!

SandyCarlson said...

I think it is gorgeous. Genius!

Shrinky said...

I think it looks brilliant, anyway, trees aren't meant to be indoors (least that's what I tell the kids every year, not that I ever get away with it, sigh). Can't wait 'til mine fly the coop!

Unknown said...

I wish I had read this earlier. I have an artifical pre-lite tree and it would be perfect outside. You are a genius!!

Anonymous said...

All I can say is WHAT A BRILLANT IDEA! I haven't got the tree yet!

noble pig said...

That is seriously awesome. I have two trees inside and one in the atrium. I want one in the kitchen.

Noe Noe Girl...A Queen of all Trades. said...

I love it!
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Thistle Cove Farm said...

Tell them the porch is an outdoor room in the house. -smile-
Lovely tree and beautiful photo.
Merry Christmas
from Thistle Cove Farm