Time and Again Tree

Ever since moving to our farm 16 years ago we've developed a Christmas tree expedition tradition.  We have 60 acres of old growth forest on our land and several years we hunted for a tree here but it meant an adventurous trek which resulted in dragging the tree across underbrush and through the woods.  One year a decision was made to try looking on my in-law's farm and since then our Christmas tree has come from the woodlot which was an old pasture.  Spruce trees are abundant there but the farmer always cuts them off about three feet above ground so they will continue to live and grow.
This year our  Christmas tree was from one of those stumps. A branch which grew out of the trunk and curved straight up to the sky resulted in a second generation tree.  There's another tree growing out of the other side so next year we may have a third generation tree. 

Best wishes to you as one year ends and another begins... of course it wouldn't be New Year's without some pause for reflection and thoughts about the coming year.  I hope that whatever your resolutions, you will take the time to smile.  A smile is free and easy to give. 

"Smile at each other, smile at your wife, smile at your children, smile at each other - it doesn't matter who it is - and that will help you to grow up in greater love for each other." Mother Teresa

"Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house.  Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor...Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.  Be the living expression of God's kindness, kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting." Mother Teresa
 

Best wishes for the New Year !