For more years than I can count we’ve grown Christmas trees in two large fields here, below the cabin. Trees that we’ve planted.

Norway Spruce (Picea abies), White Pine (Pinus strobus), Scotch Pine (Pinus sylvestris), Concolor Fir (Abies concolor), and my absolute favorite Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens).

That Blue Spruce, needs care in handling, and care in decorating. Those needles are Oh! So sharp! But still, that marvelous color, that perfect shape. And those strong branches to hold ornaments that would make other branches sag way down. Yes. A wonderful tree.

Watching them grow from year to year. Watching the bears come and snap some of the trees in half in pursuit of the ants that go after the aphids that love Christmas trees. Seeing them develop into – perfect for the living room – trees.

Such joy in growing Christmas trees. Such pleasure in growing them right here. More need to be planted and soon. More trees for more Christmases.