A handmade Christmas tree. Yeah, you heard that right.

Last Christmas, long-time readers of this blog will remember that due to circumstances in our lives at the time, my husband and I elected not to have a tree. I went back and forth about it, but in the end decided it would be best to avoid all the extra work.

This year I really wanted a tree, but because we’re thinking of taking a short trip somewhere after Christmas, it wouldn’t make sense to get a real tree that would need to be watered.

And we didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a big artificial tree.

So I planned on going out this Saturday, after George’s vet visit, and getting a nice small tree. Imagine my complete surprise upon arriving home that morning.

As I walked from the dining room into the living room, little white lights and boughs of green caught my eye.

And as I entered the room, I realized that this was the most unique ‘tree’ I had ever seen in my life.

I stood there, completely flummoxed, at the effort my husband had gone to just to provide me with a tree for the holidays. The images you see below are probably something you’ve never viewed before, so you saw it here first folks. Although it’s a bit unconventional, and maybe a tad bit tacky, it’s my tree and I love it.

It’s completely covered with tiny white lights. And he even found a box of the ornaments, the ones that are mostly the light and soft ones, and used them to decorate.

He has somehow tacked up wire and then stuffed the branches into it, keeping it in the shape of a tree. It even has an angel at the top. The branches should stay fresh for at least a week or more. I know, I know, it’s crazy. But when I sit here at night and gaze at my tree, I see something beautiful. And besides, when it’s night it hides the awful water stains and chipping paint from the mantel front. The fireplace isn’t usable right now, so what’s the harm of a tree on the front of it?

And you know what? It’s true what they say, when they say

all you need is

Hope your day is a beautiful one. Appreciate the simple things.

Like trees protruding from your mantel. I love it!

Until tomorrow, then . . .

Last photo has one of the free holiday textures found here [link] at Joy St. Claire’s blog. I love the squiggles and stars.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY CO-WORKER, RICH.