Jones Tree Farm 2012

Last Sunday, we made our annual pilgrimage to Jones Tree Farm to get our Christmas tree.  Usually, Lee has to talk me out of picking a tree that is far too big but for the first time in thirteen years, the selection at Jones left much to be desired.  There were tall trees, but they were too skinny; there were fat trees, but they were too short.  Perhaps the drought had something to do with it? Anyway, I think that even Lee was secretly disappointed in the trees, although he would never admit that to me!  Much like her father, Emily would have picked the first tree she laid eyes on but Elizabeth, following in my footsteps and those of my father, kept walking around asking, "where are all the big trees this year???"  We finally settled on the tallest and fattest douglas fir that we could find - it's nothing like our trees of the past, but it will do.

Waiting for Daddy to get our gear together.  I can't stand how grown up Elizabeth looks here.

Every year, we go to the South Pole - because it's the absolute furthest from the parking area and I want to torture the entire family.  And because that's where the biggest and best douglas firs are grown.

No lack of energy with these two.  I, on the other hand, was still battling the remnants of a nasty stomach bugged and brought up the rear of our crew.

Our tree.

Love handing the camera over to Elizabeth - Lee always smiles for her.

A labor of love...well, maybe not.  

Watching Daddy.

I stole this photo idea from my friend Melissa (whose two year old was terrified to be in this position, by the way!).  I don't know why I love this shot so much, but I do!

Getting ready....