Christmas Beginnings

This year, I had the desire to purchase a real Christmas tree. I was raised in a family where we only had a fake tree. I've never known the joys of the real tree. Before we set out to get my first real tree, I researched a few tree farms, but had not made up my mind where we were going to get our little tree (insert cool story).

A few weeks ago at work, I had gone to complete my initial assessment for a new patient. When I arrived to meet this new patient, he was end of life, and his daughter was with him at his bedside. I had the privilege of speaking with this daughter and learning a bit about this man who was unable to speak with me.
I came to find out, this man and his wife owned a Christmas tree farm in RI. His daughter then shared with me a children's book that was written about their tree farm. It was such a special moment to read this book while sitting with this man and his daughter. At one point my patient opened his eyes while I was reading the book next to him, I turned to the photo of him and his wife together and showed it to him.

He smiled the broadest toothless smile I have ever seen. Being who I am, I teared up a little bit at the joy this photo brought him.

This leads me to our wonderful adventure a week later. After learning of this man and his tree farm, I was bound and determined to get my first real tree from his farm, which is still in operation today, with different owners.

We drove to Tiverton, RI and arrived at Clark's Christmas Tree Farm. I felt like a kid! We walked around exploring all of our options, and making friends with the animals until we decided on our tree.

 We loaded our little tree into the car, and enjoyed it's beautiful fresh scent on the drive back home.

Now, for the fun part, decorating the tree! I can't stand how cute my tree is! I'm in love!

 Let's switch gears. Since Adam has been school free for a few weeks, he spends his time playing video games and baking. Along with delicious breads and other delicacies, he decided to make a pastillage (sugar) Nativity. It turned out pretty darn amazing!

Let's switch gears one last time. Adam and I went on a fun date to Boston with our friends. We went for a dessert tasting at a dessert restaurant called Finale. It was pretty fun, and super chocolaty! Adam gives the desserts two thumbs up, so it must be good.

We walked around Boston looking for the Christmas festivities. All we found was a big tree. I guess it's better than nothing. I sure do love this time of year!