a real, live christmas tree

Each year when it's time to decorate for Christmas,  my family turns on the carols (Pandora Glee Christmas), we put on a big pot of hot chocolate, and head on into the garage where our 8ft faux, flocked tree is waiting patiently to be brought inside and trimmed.  We pack it full of ribbon, garland, over sized balls, frames with vintage family photos, giant reindeer, toy soldiers, velvet flowers, snowflakes,wreathes, kiss balls, and every other item I've scored for 50% off, the day after Christmas over the last 5 years.  I absolutely LOVE it.  

This year after we hung the magnolia garland and stockings on the banister, we were on our way to the garage and my 17 year old SNAPPED.  He decided our tree had way to much crap on it, our house had  too many decorations, and it was time for Christmas detox.  I dropped a tinsel ball, paused in dismay, and thought, maybe I'd given birth to the Grinch.  Then I thought some more and realized...maybe Christmas isn't all about me. 

We called a family council, and together we decided to do things a little different this year.  The boys thought it would be a good idea to go cut a real tree from the forest, so we immediately made plans to go up north and find the perfect tree.

As fate would have it, I came down with the wretched flu and found myself bedded down in my jammies and wool socks, staying close to my new BFF, the latrine.  I insisted the boys head into the forest without me and I must admit, I was really sad I couldn't go. I was also a little nervous about what they might drag home, but I put my faith in them and begged them to take lots of pictures. 

They came home with no pictures and the perfect tree!

As soon as I could dress myself, I headed to the store to find some very light, and very simple decorations.  I couldn't weigh down the 6 good branches with heavy ornaments, so I drove right to my favorite bargain spot.  The $ store. 

I found glittered reindeer with jingle bell chokers (2 for $1.00)

and tiny little bird's nests with white, speckled eggs.

Then I headed right over to Wal Mart (I know) to find the rest of the tree decor. 

I grabbed this silver, beaded garland ($4.00 for 9 ft), these 3 inch white, feather balls ($1.99 ea) and a roll of wax paper to make this faux, capiz shell garland. 

I followed the garland tutorial {here}.  It took me about an hour to make and cost just pennies!

I also bought a star for the tree top at Wal-Mart.  I don't know myself any more.

The big splurge was this gray and white tree skirt I bought at Home Goods for $19.99.  I'm a sucker for polka dots.

I love these tags I downloaded from {Emily Jones} a few years ago.  They're so simple and adorable and come in several different colors and designs.  Still my gift wrapping go-to.

Are you ready to see our baby?

I think it's pretty cute in it's own Charlie Brown kind-a-way.  The best part is that my family couldn't be more thrilled.  There's something about a real Christmas tree that you just can't fake.  That natural, woody trunk, the dark green pine needles, the smell and the life it brings to our room.  I secretly LOVE it too. 

A few more simple things I've added to our home this year.

Feels really good.