OMG!!! Its an Artificial Tree!
We moved to Calgary in late 2023. Being new to the city, our first Christmas here was quite different from the ones we had in Vancouver. Almost everything felt unfamiliar. The highlight of that holiday season was getting a little dog on December 1st — it turned out to be the most precious Christmas gift we’ve ever received. The puppy’s brother lives with our best friends in town, and they gently guided us to choose the adorable black Yorkie.
That year, our Christmas was entirely different. We didn’t partake in the usual Advent activities we enjoyed in previous years. We didn’t know the city well, and the winters here are truly cold — really cold. Our friends had traveled over the holidays, so they asked us to house-sit and care for their dog. We spent Christmas in their house up on the hill — it was a bit surreal, but memorable.
The tree is unpacked, assembled, and the lights are strung. Stringing the lights on such a skinny tree is not easy. It’s difficult 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 nice and full in the picture. When it arrived, it wasn’t quite as impressive, but it had to do for now. The advantage of an artificial tree is that it doesn’t shed needles, and we don’t have to worry about disposing of it after the holidays.
This year, I’m looking forward to decorating the little, skinny tree. I plan to buy some additional ornaments to make it feel a bit fuller. I’ve only moved a few decorations to Calgary so far; most of our Christmas decorations are still stored in Vancouver. I can’t wait to add some festive cheer to our new home.
This year, 2025, our little artificial tree looks a bit different. I’m quite happy with it. It almost looks like the real trees we used to have.
OMG… no,no, no… Bruno!!! These are glass baubles..!
2025
