Blessings to All as Advent comes to a close and we cultivate, once again, a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Incarnation, marveling at the vulnerability, humility, and honesty of Jesus, whose light illumines hearts ever-ready to be guided by His Holy Spirit.

Here is an Inspiring Overview of Christmas Tree Cultivation and Replacement lovingly tendered by devoted Tree farmers in the USA.  The following text comes from a new AI program called Microsoft CoPilot:

Growing, cultivating, and replacing Christmas trees in the United States is quite a fascinating process. Here’s a quick overview:

Growing and Cultivating

1. Choosing the Location: Christmas tree farms are usually located on sloping hillsides where the soil drains well. The trees need ample sunlight and room to grow.
2. Selecting the Species: Different species are planted depending on the region and climate. Popular species include Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, and Scotch Pine.
3. Planting: Seedlings are typically planted in rows during early spring. Farmers often plant them densely at first, thinning them out as they grow to ensure each tree has enough space.
4. Maintenance: Growing Christmas trees takes time and care. Farmers spend 7-10 years tending to them, which includes:
5. Pruning: Trees are sheared annually to develop a desirable conical shape.
6. Weeding: Keeping the area around the trees free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
7. Pest and Disease Control: Regular monitoring and treatment to protect against pests and diseases.
8. Harvesting: When trees reach the desired height (usually 6-8 feet), they are cut down and sent to market. This typically happens from late November through December.

Replacing and Sustainability

1. Replanting: For every tree harvested, another is planted to ensure a continuous supply. Some farmers plant multiple seedlings in anticipation of natural losses.
2. Environmental Benefits: Christmas tree farms are beneficial for the environment. They provide habitat for wildlife, help prevent soil erosion, and contribute to air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
3. Recycling: After the holiday season, many communities offer tree recycling programs. These trees are often turned into mulch, which can be used in landscaping and gardening.

Growing Christmas trees is a labor of love that requires patience and dedication, but it’s also a sustainable and environmentally friendly practice. If you’re ever in the mood to visit a Christmas tree farm, it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and learn more about the process firsthand!

And here is a link to one of my favorite Christmas Songs. My favorite line: “And the shepherds could not tell whether Angels or the Stars themselves were singing.” The song is called CHRISMTAS 1913. Singer John Denver, a prophetic environmentalist, recorded it on his album JOHN DENVER AND THE MUPPETS CHRISTMAS TOGETHER.  Here’s a link:

John Denver & The Muppets- Noel: Christmas Eve, 1913