The Tree Trimmer

Calling all tree trimmers.  Every year my kids decorate their own tree and I get to trim my very own as well.  I call this my "back to nature" tree. 

I like to imagine you'd find this kind of tree in an enchanted forest with it's mix of pleasant creatures, natural elements, old fashioned ornaments and friendly feathered friends.

I love the idea of mixing old decorations that have been collected for years and years, with fairly new ornaments that just look like I've had them forever. 

As you can see, there's a little bit of everything hanging on this tree. 

While I love the smell of fresh pine this time of year, I've always used this 7ft artificial tree because it's just easier to work with than a real one. 

I think it's less mess to clean up after the season, so I'm OK with the trade off.  I always put the stands of lights on first and twist each strand once around each branch for a secure hold.

Instead of traditional garland, I wrap the tree in these burgundy berry vines that you see in the picture below.  I love this colorful alternative and it's really works with the more nature-inspired theme I try to maintain in all the little details. 

No need to wrap or twist these vines.  Just lay them on top of the branches horizontally and they will stay put.

I also use lots and lots of dried baby's breath which is available at most craft stores.  While some of the baby's breath can be reused year after year, I typically end up having to buy more. 

I try to pick it up throughout the year, as I spot it on sale.  I've found that the baby's breath helps to fill in the gaps in the branches and it really adds a lot more weight and girth to the tree.

I usually just take all my decorations out of their respective boxes and pile them up like this.  This way I can see everything all at once rather than digging through individual boxes looking for particular items.  Of course, the real headache comes when it's time to pack everything back up after the holiday.

If you look closely, you'll see my tree is actually alive with inhabitants.  You'll find lots of little birds in all colors and species feeling right at home here. The beautiful bluebird in the photo below returns every year to stake out her nest. 

She constantly guards her dotted eggs, although year after year, I have yet to see any eggs actually hatch.  Maybe one day.

This is the perfect kind of tree theme that allows me to include lots of little personal keepsakes too.  These little brown snakeskin infant booties were a gift from a co-worker right after my son was born.  I've always thought they were so adorable and they work perfectly as a holiday ornament. 

Of course, when I look at my son today at 7-years old, these little booties also remind me how fast time is flying.

About a dozen of these Old St. Nicks in the photo below, also adorn my tree.  I love these particular ornaments because they look so life-like and old fashioned.  These appear to have wood-carved facial features, but these Santas are actually ceramic. 

The detail is beautifully molded and the eyes are inset with green marble.  Now, the eyes do seem to follow you as you walk around the tree and that can be a little weird sometimes.      

Here's another one of my favorite little feathered friends, who never gets lost in the shuffle of assorted ornaments.  She's so pretty and I always make sure she's prominently displayed right out front so she's easily visible.  She likes that special treatment too, and never fails to return every year.

I also use a lot of decorations that are typically used in wreath making.  They already have the wire points on them that helps secure them nicely within the branches.  You know what they say about an apple a day?  Well, apples work well as Christmas ornaments too, and I use plenty of them. 

Add some beaded berries and the tree becomes all the more delicious.  Just don't take a bite.

A good friend gave me this little angel a long time ago.  This sweet-faced ornament is now a permanent fixture on the tree.  I always give her a tiny bunch of berries to hold, and I think she fits in perfectly.

I love using unusual items that you wouldn't typically see on a Christmas tree.  My sister told me once it was so much fun to walk into the room throughout the day because every time she did, she saw something different and delightful in the tree. 

I like that there are so many hidden elements that reveal themselves which each new look.   

Because I have so many tiny little velvet bows all over the tree, I decided to use a large bow as my tree topper. 

My kids are always after me every year to replace it with a star, but I'm not ready to give up my pretty burgundy bow just yet.

In addition to the bird theme, you can see there's also a pretty heavy Santa influence too.  Sprinkled throughout the tree, you'll find about forty of these little ceramic Santas.   

I bought these during an after holiday sale about 14-years ago for about fifty cents a piece.  

Hmm, I don't remember where I found this ornament but I really love this little little old fashioned wire dress.  The tiny lace ribbon, rose and burgundy feather are a perfectly beautiful detail.

Did any of you used to have a real sled like this one in the picture below?  When I was little, we had a similar wooden one. 

This ornament reminded me of that old sleigh with the blades on the bottom.  Do they even make sleds like this anymore?

Say hello to a few more of my feathered friends.  My little sparrow loves her perch on top of this birdhouse.  It gives her a perfect view of everything and this tiny red bird with the black breast is another regular guest. 

I think they both add such sweet character to the tree. 

Here's another decoration that you may have seen in a wreath.  Again, these work very well as tree fillers and they really help close up the gaps in the tree. 

I love this pinecone and musical note adornment.

Well, a bitty bird has to have a place to rest its head right?   Since I never know when a feathered friend is likely to visit, I always make sure several accommodations are available for unexpected winged guests.

These little woodland elves are among my favorite of all the decorations.  I have nine of them, that I picked up during an after Christmas store sale about a dozen years ago. 

These little guys have flexible legs and arms, so I can position each one either sitting or standing within the branches.  I think they're so cute.

Several of these long-tailed pheasants are placed right on the edge of the branches.  I think they're so elegant.  They look like they just swooped into the tree and stopped for a rest. 

The pheasants have long feathered tails that have a similar enlongated line as the eucalyptus branches that I also use.  I like the smell of the eucalyptus and in a way it helps make up for not having the natural pine scent.

When I look at my tree sometimes, I actually feel like it really is enchanted.  The details and ornaments have such personality, they all seem to be alive. 

Trust me, that sentiment sparks quite a run in the imagination department.

Perhaps all the wonderful little creatures who inhabit my sweet tree really do come to life when everything is still and quiet. 

When the lights are low, maybe the birds chirp and the elves and others who live within the branches whisper to each other, while the friendly homeowners are fast asleep upstairs.

I imagine this enchanted tree brings good luck to my home and family during the holiday season.  By taking such care with every detail, I like to think these enchanted visitors who visit return the favor with wonderful goodwill and good spirit for the holiday season.  I know, call me crazy. 

Still it's a pleasant thought, wouldn't you say? 

Comments

[melissa @ the inspired room]

GORGEOUS.

[KJ]

I have been taking a "scroll" through your blog and it is so beautiful! What a pleasure to visit here!

KJ
California

[Ravenhill]

What a magnificent job you have done trimming your tree! You seem to have a special magic that you bring to all that you touch.

I wanted to thank you for your kind letters and good advice you have given me in 2007. I have certainly appreciated that you took so much time to respond to my questions.

Wishing you are stellarly creative and fun 2008.

[rhondi]

What a beautiful tree! Absolutely a wonderland. I can just picture real little woodlnad creatures nesting in there. This is my first visit and I love it already!

[Heather Jones]

Your tree is beautiful! I get my own tree to decorate, as well. It makes me so happy.

Love your video ... Merry Christmas!

[Elaine Tutman]

Hmm - so this is what happens when children grow up whose oddball parents only allowed home-made/child-made items on the family Christmas tree.

Lovely tree, Lisa!

Dad and I knew our kids were talented even as you complained about our "un-fancy" trees when you were little.

Love always, your Mother

[Lisa D.]

Lisa, What a beautiful tree...it truly looks enchanted;-) I hope you had a wonderful & Merry Christmas.

[sheree]

Hi Lisa!

Oh, your tree is glorious! I hope you all had a wonderful and love filled Christmas! I have been on a computer break, so sorry for the late wishes to you. Talk soon,
Sheree

[the feathered nest]

Beautiful tree! I love how it's loaded with ornaments and the red really pops.

I still haven't made the little birds :-( Hopefully I'll have more time this weekend.

Manuela

[Sher's Creative Expressions]

Hi Lisa, thank you for visiting my home for the 2007 Virtual Home Tour.

I'm enjoying your site as well. And WHAT a beautiful tree you have!!

Blessings,

Sher

[Jen ~ ARTful Dreamer]

Wow is right - that is an amazing tree Lisa! I really like the idea of adding in the baby's breath - I'll have to try that next year. This was my 1st year ever with an artificial tree & I must admit I loved the ease of decorating it and am looking forward to the easy storage :~) Too funny, every year my son makes the comment "Mom, where's the star?" - I have yet to find one I like enough to add to the top! Hope your Christmas was wonderful!

[gena]

Dahling, what an incredible tree! I am inspired. This outdoes the Teddy Bear Tree on the famous Candy Cane Lane in San Francisco! I love it!

[Sandra Evertson]

Wow!
This tree is Absolutely Stunning! You did an Amazing job! I would never want to take it down!
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Sandra Evertson

[Robyn Weatherspoon]

OMGosh! What an amazing tree you have! Just beautiful! Wishing you and your family a happy happy Merry Christmas!!

[Kim Musgrove]

Such a Beautiful tree Lisa!! Have a very Merry Christmas!!

[Angela (Cottage Magpie)]

What a spectacular tree! I used dried flowers on my tree last year and really loved it--I think I'll do that again next year. Your baby's breath looks great! And I have to say, I've always been a staunch "real" tree person, but the faux trees are looking better every year! Thanks for sharing your gorgeous tree and all the tips. Happy Holidays!
~Angela :-)

[justlisa]

Such a beautiful tree! Love all your decorations.

Merry Christmas!

lisa

[Tawnya]

OK that is seriously one amazing tree! What a way to celebrate!!! WOW! :) love it!

Merry Christmas!!!

[Marjolijn]

Hello Lisa, your Christmas tree is a real Art-Work! I'd like to wish you a merry Christmas and all the best for the coming New Year! Greetings from Belgium,
Marjolijn

[Aleida Franklin]

Oh my this is so great that it puts my tree to shame. How beautiful, stunning. I wanted to wish you a very Merry Christmas. I am so happy to have stumbled upon your world here. It's a very happy and inspiring place. More than you realize. So thank you.

[Lil' d]

What a great tree! Mine's looking all bare and miserable, as I've left off most of our glass ornaments (my kids won't leave the poor tree alone - it's already fallen over once...).

Thanks

[Paige]

Lisa, what a great post - thanks for sharing all those pix! The baby's breath idea is a great one, and I love all the little birds. Merry Christmas to you and yours!

[Tara]

Lisa, what a feast for the eyes! Lovely post chock full of inspiring photos. Merry Christmas to you and your sweet family!~xo

[Debbie Egizio]

What an absolutely stunning tree! Thanks for sharing all of your great pictures and details. It's lovely!

[Frivolitea]

wow. your tree is amazing. What a beautiful holiday creation!

[JenniferJennifer]

Wow! What a gorgeous tree! I love the attention to detail! The ornaments are gorgeous and it all came together so beautifully. This is my first time visiting your blog... I'm so glad I did! Have a wonderful Christmas and prosperous New Year!!!

[adla]

Hi Lisa, Thanks for popping by Vintage Delights and leading me to your beautiful blog.You've created one magnificent Enchanted forest. I can get lost in it with all that magical splendour ! Shall be back to visit and you are welcome to linger around Vintage Delights anytime :)
Happy Holidays,
Adla

Happy Holidays Lisa! Your tree is awesome!

[Jen R]

I love the tree! Love all of the red! Happy Holidays!
Jen r

[M&Co]

I join the choir : WOW!! That tree looks enchanted!! Love it! You have created magic this time ;-)

[frenchgardenhouse]

What a beautiful tree! I love everything in it, though the little brown shoes are probably my very favorite! I know you will spend many moments enjoying your home and your family and friends by the side of your tree.
Wishing you and your family a very merry Christmas!
xo Lidy

[nikki brey]

Your tree is very lovely. I like how it's not too bright, it goes with the decor. I also LOVE the snow in the window. I wish it would snow here, but I live in the hottest place ever!

[Penny]

Wow, now that is a beautiful, amazing tree! I can't imagine all the time that it must have taken to decorate it. It's so pretty lit up.

[Teresa]

Amazing tree. Absolutely gorgeous. I love all of the inhabitants too. You take wonderful pictures. I am still learning.

[pc smart]

gorgeous tree! so much to look at and it all blends together so well!

[Karla]

Beautiful! A very Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Karla

[Crystal]

Gorgeous Tree!!!

[Elzie]

What a lovely tree you have. I have always been jealuise on your way of decorating trees in USA.
Just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas.
Take care.
Love Elzie

[Miss Sassy]

So gorgeous. I really love it.

[adrienne]

WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW, WOW AND WOW! I love, love,love, love, love, love , love, love, love LOVE the berries and apples!!! OMG. I "SO" know what my theme for next year will be!!!!!! LOL