Over the weekend we checked an event off the life list: choose and cut your own Christmas tree. It's one of those things John and I have always wanted to do, so we thought getting in the spirit for our first Christmas down South would be the perfect opportunity to do it!
We set out early Saturday morning to Vale, NC, a short two hour drive, to what could be considered Christmas tree valley. A couple of bagels, coffee on the road, carols playing, and beautiful scenery made for a quick drive.
We did our research in advance, and found this site (here) to be pretty helpful because it lead us to Reeves Ridge Christmas Trees. We wanted the whole experience: hay rides, Christmas shop, marshmallows over the open fire, animals, and of course, cut your own fraser fir trees. Reeves managed to have it all while being totally unassuming with personal service and a very laid back vibe.
After hot cocoa, cookies and toasted marshmallows for sustenance, we made the big trek up to to the top of the mountain for views that did not disappoint and a fine selection of trees. We let the kids (and by kids I mean Tessa, Eloise wasn't exactly into it!) pick their own pint sized tree for their playroom while John and I tried to compromise on a tree for our den.
This year, I wanted a more natural tree, not a perfectly sheered tree. I didn't want to drive 2 hours to pick out a perfect tree, I could have purchased at Home Depot (which, by the way, have great trees)! A non typically perfect Christmas tree was not something John was really into - lots of compromise and searching until we found something we both liked.
The girls had a great time, as did we. The only thing that could have made it any better would have been a fresh snow fall, but you can't have it all!
One other quick shout out from our little day trip adventure was our lunch spot: River Rock Grill. If you ever find yourself in Sparta, this is the place to be. Some of the best crab cakes I've ever had!
The kids made quick work of decorating their tree. John and I, on the other hand, are still working on ours.
After this weekend, the Christmas spirit is definitely building in our home!
Hope you had a great weekend getting into the holiday spirit.
until next time,
