Why Christmas trees?

Have you ever thought Why do we bring live trees into our homes around Christmas? What is the meaning behind this. Well I just did some googling and there are more stories than I can shake a stick at. It got kind of overwhelming. After reading for about an hour on the subject I came back with this. The Tradition stems from the celebration of WINTER SOLSTICE. People used to bring in Ever green branches into there homes to signify Life's triumph over death. How beautifully put. Christ's triumph over death. When in the middle of the bitter winter these evergreens would be thriving. Winter solstice happens between Dec. 21. -Dec. 24. It is the longest night of the year. I think It so appropriate we celebrate Christ's birth On the day known in history and around the world as rebirth. The days start to get longer and life starts to return to the earth.

Now Maybe just maybe the whole Christmas tree thing got out of hand. It started in Germany (at least thats what google says) It was beautiful. The first ornaments were handmade out of wax and gingerbread. Then later it was decorated with candles. and carefully stitched stars. Now our trees are filled with mass-produced, plastic Santa clauses. Just more to buy. And this is a Christmas revolution...so here are some alternative ideas...

Living tree in a pot. you can use year after year.

Decorate a tree you already have in your yard

Get creative and make one out of cloth/felt/Any thing!

Wall hanging trees

Try a non plastic reusable tree

Try mini trees, Mini evergreens/ Bonsai /rosemary bushes

Have any other household plants? Decorate those.

Paper machete?

Check this link out these people got creative...WOW.

There are so many christmas trees in our communities that are easy to visit. If you do get a tree let the decorations have significance. Don't just do it cause its what everyone does and target is cheap and cute. Let evey thing you do this season have a meaning. Lets get creative and do this!