Christmas tree hunting

It's that time of year again, and my family just went on our annual Christmas tree hunt! There’s nothing quite like the experience of heading out into a beautiful farm or forest and choosing, then cutting down, your very own real Christmas tree. For us, it's become more than just getting a tree; it's a cherished holiday tradition filled with laughter, fresh air, and unforgettable memories. If you've ever thought about trying it, I highly recommend it! First things first: planning is key. We usually aim to go the first or second weekend of December. This gives us plenty of time to enjoy the tree before Christmas, and the selection is usually still fantastic. You'll want to research local Christmas tree farms or, if you're feeling adventurous, check your state's regulations for cutting trees in national forests (often requires a permit!). We love supporting local farms, and they often provide saws and help with netting. Before you head out, make sure you're prepared. Here's my go-to checklist: Warm clothing: Layers are a must, plus waterproof boots! Gloves: Essential for handling branches and protecting your hands. Saw: If the farm doesn't provide one, a good sharp bow saw is perfect for cutting down a Christmas tree. Measuring tape: To make sure your chosen tree will actually fit in your living room! Don't forget to account for the stand and topper. Tarp or old blanket: To drag your tree out and protect your car's interior. Rope or bungee cords: To secure the tree to your car roof. Snacks and hot drinks: A thermos of hot chocolate makes the whole experience much cozier! A camera: You'll want to capture these moments! Once you're at the farm, the real fun begins: the hunt! We love wandering through the rows of evergreens, searching for that 'perfect' tree. Everyone in the family gets to vote. We look for a few things: good height, a nice full shape, even branches, and fresh, green needles that don't easily fall off. Don't be afraid to walk around it a few times to see it from all angles. Sometimes the tree that looks perfect from afar has a bald spot! When you've found 'the one,' it's time to get to work. Make sure to cut the tree as close to the ground as possible, making a straight, clean cut. This helps it absorb water better once it's home. Safety first – always be careful with the saw, especially with kids around. After cutting, we usually drag our tree back to the designated netting area on a tarp, which makes it much easier. Watching it go through the netting machine is always a bit of a spectacle! Getting it home is another adventure. We carefully secure it to the roof of our car, making sure it's stable for the drive. Once home, we immediately give the trunk a fresh cut (about an inch off the bottom) and put it in a sturdy stand filled with water. Keep that water reservoir topped up daily, and your beautiful, fresh-cut Christmas tree will stay vibrant and fragrant throughout the holiday season. There's truly something magical about having a real tree you picked out and cut down yourself. It makes the season feel more authentic and connects us to nature. This year, as we prepare our family music video, it’s all inspired by the joy of our annual tree hunt. I hope this encourages you to start your own 'cut down a Christmas tree' tradition – trust me, the memories are worth every bit of effort!