Life on North Oak Ave

When Christmas trees first became common in the United States, the Norway Spruce was the most popular species.  It was sought out for its nice smell and symmetrical shape.

Unfortunately, early Americans did not have Google.  Because if they did, they would know that Norway Spruces do not hold their needles very well.  We, in fact, have Google but neglected to check the characteristics of the Norway Spruce.  Besides, we had already tagged and paid for the tree at our local Christmas Tree farm.  But, the fact that it was the only Norway Spruce on the entire 120 acre farm and the cheapest out of any of the trees, should have raised some red flags.

We picked up the tree in early December.   The tree was decorated and lit without any issues.

By Christmas Eve, we noticed that it was losing some needles (yes, we provided plenty of water!).  On Christmas, if anyone approached the tree within 5 feet, a shower of needles would fall off  the tree and onto the floor.  After New Years, we thought it was best to get rid of the tree before it came a fire hazard.  This is what the tree looked like after removal of the decorations and lights.

Ethan was very proud of our rather large pile of needles.

I took the tree outside, but we were embarrased to put it out at the curb for pickup!  But this morning everyone else had their trees at curbside, so I reluctantly put our dead, needleless tree out too.  Next year we are getting a white pine!