Can it still be a great Christmas, even without a Christmas tree

Can it still be a great Christmas, even without a Christmas tree?  That is the question I asked myself many years ago when my mom said she wasn’t going to decorate for Christmas any more.  Mom had started giving away the ornaments that my siblings and I grew up admiring on our tree and even offered the tree we had used for many years. Yes, we had a “fake” tree.  There are several people in my family that has allergies (including myself) and an artificial tree made more sense.

When mom made that statement, I wasn’t sure how I felt.  Does this mean, no Christmas with mom, dad and the family?  Worse yet, does this mean NO PRESENTS……..awwww the horror!  LOL. Seriously though, it started me thinking about present, past and future.

Now the circle has been completed as this year at Thanksgiving, I gave my artificial tree to my daughter.  She originally refused, presumably with the same thoughts and emotions I had as a young adult. After reassuring her that we will still have a Christmas gathering that will include too much food, presents and many laughs and games, she took the tree.

I am finally understanding why mom and dad did so many of the things they did.  First, putting up the tree, decorating and all that goes with it is a lot of work.  Yes it is worth it, but the kids don’t want to be part of the “joy of decorating” or the thrill of “taking down” all of the festive display.  Second, well let’s be honest there is no second.  The first reason was enough for me.

I am of the age that Christmas, or New Year’s, or Thanksgiving can be enjoyed any day of the year and really should be celebrated every day of the year.  Be thankful every day, thank Jesus Christ every day and feel blessed that each new day is the start of a new year.

Whether you have a real tree, a fake tree or no tree.  Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from my family to yours.  Yes- I put up a tree this year.  That is what is in the coverage photo.