OMG!!! Its an Artificial Tree!
We moved to Calgary in late 2023, and as newcomers, our first Christmas here felt quite different from the ones we had known in Vancouver. Almost everything was unfamiliar—the rhythm of the city, the landscape, and especially the depth of winter.
The highlight of that season came on December 1st, when we welcomed a tiny dog into our lives. It turned out to be the most precious Christmas gift we’ve ever received. His brother lives with our closest friends in the city, and it was they who gently guided us toward choosing the little black Yorkie who has since become such a beloved part of our home.
That year, Christmas unfolded in an entirely new way. We didn’t follow the Advent traditions we had cherished in the past. We were still finding our bearings, and Calgary’s winter—truly cold, in a way that commands respect—kept us close to home. Our friends were away over the holidays and asked us to house-sit and look after their dog, so we spent Christmas in their house up on the hill. It felt slightly surreal, being in someone else’s home during such a personal time, yet it was also quietly beautiful and deeply memorable.
The tree is unpacked, assembled, and the lights were strung. Stringing the lights on such a skinny tree is not easy. It’s not easy to make the cable as invisible as possible.
2024 was our first “real” Christmas in Calgary. We had moved into our condo and were beginning to get familiar with the city, though I still couldn’t get used to the incredible cold. For the first time in our lives, we didn’t have a real Christmas tree. Back in Vancouver, we’d drive to a tree farm; Klaus would carry a saw, and I’d wander the lot until we found the perfect tree. But now, in our apartment building, real trees aren’t allowed. That meant getting an artificial one — a first for us. Honestly, I was a bit horrified at first!
There she is! The tree is decorated and ready for Christmas. It turned out nicer than I thought.
2024
Eventually, I found a tree online that looked beautifully full in the photos. When it arrived, it wasn’t quite as impressive, but for now, it does the job. There are, of course, some practical advantages to having an artificial tree—it doesn’t shed needles, and there’s no need to worry about disposal once the holidays are over.
This year, I’m actually looking forward to decorating our little, rather slender tree. I plan to add a few new ornaments to give it a fuller, more festive feel. So far, I’ve only brought a small selection of decorations to Calgary; most of our Christmas collection is still stored in Vancouver. All the more reason to slowly build something new here—I’m excited to bring a bit more holiday warmth and cheer into our new home.
This year, in 2025, our little artificial tree looks a bit lovelier—and I’m genuinely pleased with it. With a few thoughtful additions, it has taken on a fuller, more natural appearance, almost reminiscent of the real trees we used to bring home.
OMG… no,no, no… Bruno!!! These are glass baubles..!
2025
