In my 34 years here on earth, I am pleased to announce that I can now say that I have had a real tree for Christmas. Now I know there is nothing wrong with having a fake tree since that is all I really knew growing up. My parents committed “Christmas Treeson” by having the same fake tree for over 12 years and I simply became accustomed to it and it’s simplicity, never really giving it much thought to having a “real” tree. The act of having a fake tree is not a crime, using it for 12 years or more is. When exes would suggest “hey, let’s get a real tree” I would simply shrug it off and say “no, a fake one will do just fine”. I never really put any thought to the sentimental value of going out and hand picking the tree of your choice, and having the aroma of a Douglas fir filling the hallways of the house. I have always liked Christmas and this time of year because of my parents, even though we always lacked a real tree. However, I want Lia to have the sights, sounds, and now the smells of Christmas to fill her memories with the joys this time of year brings.

We are only t-minus 20 days until the ever approaching, much dreaded and often warned TERRIBLE TWO’S. Although I have found it’s usually worst between 2 approaching 3 which I have a works cited page(s) of parents to verify this very fact. It’s hard to convince me though, since a halo floats above her picture on my desk. She has had her moments, but I usually shrug it off thinking “I don’t think it will get much worse than this”. I’m not being naive, just positive, as a parent should be even in the most trying times.

I look forward to Christmas with her each year as I will try my hardest to top the previous. Not with act of giving the best presents so much, but rather the joy, laughter, and essence of Christmas this time of year brings. I hope to solidify the memories of Christmas in her life, as my parents did for mine. Only this time without committing the act of Christmas Treeson. I love you Mom and Dad, thanks for making Christmas so special for me. I now have a wonderful daughter to share this time of year with.