On a cold, snowy day at the end of November, five of us set out to find the perfect Christmas tree. We wanted a big on- eight feet AT LEAST- and we were determined to find one that lived up to the expectations of everybody back at Grebel (we have learned for next time that it is better to keep quiet about plans for purchasing an enormous tree- people were disappointed about the size).
We planned everything well. We had three guys along (thanks to Caleb Jackett, Phillip Rempel, and Eric Kennedy), and a lot of cash (which turned out to be necessary when we found out the price of a tree base- never again.) We arrived at the tree farm in plenty of time to pick a tree in daylight and be back by dinner. What we didn’t count on was our differing opinions in “the perfect tree.” Two hours later Eric Kennedy was still brushing off trees for us to critique. Phil was ready with the saw and Caleb was standing nearby patiently (in shorts nonetheless), waiting to carry (one-handed) our tree. After agonizing over the size, needles, and branch density, we finally made our selection and went to pay. The tree was not cheap, but it was expected. What was NOT expected was the price of the tree base. To compensate, we ate about twenty dollars worth of the free cookies and cider- the only inexpensive thing at the farm.
After eating and paying, we left in the dark, base in hand, excited to get the tree up and looking beautiful. What we were not anticipating was the most challenging experience of our lives- even the engineers couldn’t figure out the base (though Brad Froese did try very hard). Katie Penner was finally able to chain the base to the tree- literally- though there was a price to pay, as the tree gave her an allergic reaction. The tree was also still covered in snow, and we were all soaked and cold. Moods had plummeted by the end, as comments like “oh, it’s smaller than I thought” and “it’s really crooked” flew from the people who were watching.
Nearly two weeks later, the question has come to our heads again. “Was it actually worth it? Was it worth the time and money and loss of space and allergic reactions?” Definitely. Once the tree was straightened and decorated, all comments turned positive. People stop by regularly to tell us that they love our tree. Others have contributed decorations, including a crown of thorns, that have only enhanced the tree’s beauty.
Thanks so much to everyone- the people who could have said we couldn’t have a tree, but said yes; the people who came to the farm to help us; everyone who has contributed ornaments, and everyone who has stopped by to see it! We hope the tree has brought you as much joy as it has brought us!!
Written by: Ellery Penner and Mel Goodfellow
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