This was the first year we got to cut down our own Christmas tree! Brian is ALL ABOUT the real tree. I grew up with a fake tree (we had a cat) so, it’s been lovely having real Christmas trees since being married.  We drove to a lovely Christmas tree farm, Sunny Day Tree Farm, located a couple towns over in Sherwood, Oregon.  Su (the owner) was super nice and hospitable! They had several tree varieties to choose from and are located on a rolling hill that’s pretty elevated (without cell service) and you get great views, too. They had complimentary hot chocolate and coffee next to a wood burning fire inside a big “barn” for you to relax with after you earned your tree ;).  Also, it was dog friendly so we brought George and he met a few other golden’s while there. We’ll definitely return next year.

Su was kinda laughing when I walked up in my nice and a little bit dressy tailored orange pea coat. I explained that we were going to do a family self portrait so we wanted to look somewhat put together. She laughed and told me I’d get muddy & to maybe bring a jacket that can get dirty next time.  She was right, but it was fun! What’s a little mud, right?

We trekked out to the spot where we found OUR tree. George had a blast wandering around and sniffing other dogs and trees while marking his spots. Brady brought his toy chain saw and assisted Brian in the cutting down of the tree.  Don’t be fooled… these photos were quite challenging to capture a happy put together look. (See photos series below.) Just after we cut down the tree, Brady was having a MASSIVE crying fit and wanted me to carry him, but he was muddy and remember I had my nice coat on and I was flanked with my camera and tripod equipment. Brian had saws (his and Brady’s), the dog (who is actually always the best behaved- thank God for George!), and various other items to carry so, it was quite the clown show watching us (the Griswald’s) experience the tree farm – hah. Oh, and it was raining a bit, too.

Here are some of my favorites from our time at the Sunny Day Tree Farm.  We used one as our Christmas (e) card. 🙂

Isn’t Mt. Hood gorgeous?! This is on the ride up to the tree farm… just your average vineyard, farms, and a spectacular view of Mt. Hood!