One of my favorite family traditions was getting the Christmas tree. It was especially my favorite thing when we'd go to Silveyville Christmas Tree Farm. Don't get me wrong you can find a cute tree at a local lot but the experience of Silveyville is what kicked off my Christmas season. You can see my scrappy pages from last year's trip to Silveyville here. They have it all - Christmas music, sliegh rides, trees, hot cider, gift shop, wreathes, employees dressed like elves, decorations. It was such a fun atmosphere and I really do miss it. I'm not sure if there's anything like that in Kennessee since I'm not there to go find a tree but there's nothing like that here in New Mexico - not around these parts at least. I've been trying to convince my parents that they should start their own tree farm and use Silveyville as inspiration. Seriously folks, if you are in the area it's a fun place to go, even if you don't buy a tree there.
Last year they had a tree dedicated to our servicemen which touched my heart because my husband was still at training when I went. I didn't get a tree last year but went with some other families from my church who were going. My mom ended up surprising me by showing up. I am SO glad that she did, I was happy she came then but now I am REALLY grateful. It's my last holiday memory of her without the man who murdered her just over a month later around. Christmas was her favorite time of year and because she didn't celebrate her first until she met my dad when she was 17/18 she still had a childlike excitement about it. She had taken me there many times when I was little so going with her and my kids was very special.
When I started posting tonight I was going to talk about finding our tree this year but it went a different direction. I'll post about this tree in the next couple of days and have pictures to share as well. Thanks for stopping by.
6 comments:
This must be a hard time of year for you...I'm glad you are back home with your dad and his family. Be well. I'll be thinking of you.
I'm glad you've at least got happy holiday memories of your mom to keep her alive in your heart. That sounds totally cheesy, but it's difficult to find words when what I'd really like to do is give you a {{hug}}.
PS. My comment posted twice by accident, so I deleted the second one. Just thought I'd let you know, in case you're like me and can't stand not knowing why a commenter deleted what they said!!
AW honey. It sounds like an awesome place and I'm so glad she was there with you that day. I can't imagine how hard things must be right now and I hope you keep expressing your feelings like this, I know WE are all here for you anytime you need us!
Can't wait for pictures and stories from this year!
Wow. I've always been curious as to your family story (you've hinted at it a few times), but never did I imagine what it actually included.
My heart and prayers go out to you as you try to enjoy the Christmas season, even amidst all the emotions that come along with it. It can't be easy, but like Christine said -- we are all here for you!!
((hugs))
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