Kaitlyn's Korner: Christmas tree time

By Kaitlyn Delaney
Photo Editor

As someone who celebrates Christmas, something that my family considers every year is the Christmas tree.

Some years, when we want to put the tree up not long after Thanksgiving, we will put up our artificial tree, so that a real one doesn’t die too soon. That is what we did this year.

But sometimes we wait a little longer and go on the hunt for a real tree. Luckily for Michiganders, Michigan ranks third in the nation for Christmas tree production, according to the Michigan Ag Council. So, people in our state should have plenty of opportunities to find the perfect real Christmas tree for their family.

With having so many places that grow Christmas trees, it shouldn’t be surprising that there are approximately two million Christmas trees sold every year. There are over 560 Christmas tree farms in Michigan, and at least eight different types of trees to choose from.

Because of the impact that the Christmas tree market has on Michigan’s economy, the environmental and social benefits, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer even declared December to be Michigan Christmas Tree Month.

I love having a real tree, even though sap tends to get all over the decorations. And remembering to water it takes some getting used to. The experience of going out and just getting to spend time with my family is worth it every time.

We always end up laughing at something, or spending more time out in the cold than in the warm vehicle, but that’s how some of the best memories are made.

Walking out into the living room and being greeted by the fresh smell of the tree is the best.

Artificial trees don’t have the same piney smell, but that’s easy to fix now a days. I just go to my favorite small candle shop and get a Christmas tree candle.

It’s not the same, but for years like this year, when the tree has been up since the weekend after Thanksgiving, it works. And it smells fantastic.