Breaking news!!! DECISION!!!Gambit Christmas Tree tradition hangs in the balance.

[fairgambit]

My dear wife and I have been married for over 50 years and have never had an artificial Christmas tree. Our tradition is to go to a local tree farm and cut down our own. This year, due to continuing knee problems, Mrs. G wants to buy a fake tree. To minimize her problems, in recent years, I have walked the tree farm and then called her when I have found the perfect tree. I do all the work and she only needs to give her approval. This year, for reasons not entirely clear (perhaps it was the "Babs" thing last year), she is asking we skip the tree farm and go artificial. I stand firmly opposed and we have been debating the matter for a week. Since we leave our tree up till February, we typically cut it down and put it in the stand 7-10 days before Christmas. That time is now upon us. Will the Gambit tree be real or fake? Stay tuned.....

 

[FHSPSU67]

Fake!

 

[Psu00]

Hang tough Fair! She wants to streamline the process now for health issues but my guess is she’d miss the real tree smell if you went artificial.

If you do change it up this year and go artificial- get some pine smelling candles and pine scented sticks you can hang in the artificial tree (I forget their name but can be found easily online).

 

[TiogaLion]

Tell the farmer what you want and have him cut two trees on the day of your arrival. Negotiate a price a for both, and have your wife choose which one she wants. The farmer then may sell the other, and hopefully you negotiated a price that allows him to cover in case he doesn't sell the remaining tree. (I would just pay him for both with the understanding you are taking just one.)

 

[CoachET]

No!!! I so look forward to your tree stories. Convince her the McAndrew board Christmas won’t be the same!

 

[Tom McAndrew]

Oh no. @fairgambit, you have to keep the tradition going. I recall your mentioning Mrs. Fair's knee issues, and how you did most of the walking at the tree farm, the past few years in your annual post about selecting the Fair's Christmas Tree. While it's nice that Mrs. Fair is showing off her practical side, and suggesting a fake tree, I think you have to draw the line on fake.

A simple compromise would be to purchase a cut tree. They generally don't smell as much or as good as a freshly cut tree from a tree farm, but they do give off some of the enjoyable smell of a Christmas tree.

The other option is that you tweak the selection process even more, and go to the tree farm by yourself, and select the tree (and do the rest of the normal work). There's something sad about having to change the process to the point of not including Mrs. Fair. But people make compromises all the time for health/physical limitations. Sadly, time forces all of us to make such compromises over the course of a lifetime.

Sure, fake trees require less clean up and maintenance than fresh trees. And once you purchase one, then it sits in a box when you take it down, and is available for the following year when needed. So there are some practical advantages to fake trees.

But I really think you, as well as Mrs. Fair, will miss the smell of your fresh cut Christmas Tree through February. And you'll also miss the variations of each year's tree. In short, marshal all your legal skills, and make a convincing argument that gets Mrs. Fair to agree to let you go and do the entire process by yourself.

We're counting on you, @fairgambit

 

[fairgambit]

Oh no. @fairgambit, you have to keep the tradition going. I recall your mentioning Mrs. Fair's knee issues, and how you did most of the walking at the tree farm, the past few years in your annual post about selecting the Fair's Christmas Tree. While it's nice that Mrs. Fair is showing off her practical side, and suggesting a fake tree, I think you have to draw the line on fake.

A simple compromise would be to purchase a cut tree. They generally don't smell as much or as good as a freshly cut tree from a tree farm, but they do give off some of the enjoyable smell of a Christmas tree.

The other option is that you tweak the selection process even more, and go to the tree farm by yourself, and select the tree (and do the rest of the normal work). There's something sad about having to change the process to the point of not including Mrs. Fair. But people make compromises all the time for health/physical limitations. Sadly, time forces all of us to make such compromises over the course of a lifetime.

Su7re, fake trees require less clean up and maintenance than fresh trees. And once you purchase one, then it sits in a box when you take it down, and is available for the following year when needed. So there are some practical advantages to fake trees.

But I really think you, as well as Mrs. Fair, will miss the smell of your fresh cut Christmas Tree through February. And you'll also miss the variations of each year's tree. In short, marshal all your legal skills, and make a convincing argument that gets Mrs. Fair to agree to let you go and do the entire process by yourself.

We're counting on you, @fairgambit

Thank you Tom. At one time Mrs. G regularly spent time on this board reading posts, but now she's into other things like painting, knitting, and guitar playing. Still, she always felt you ran a good board and values your opinion. She's working on a crafting project right now but tomorrow I will bring your well-reasoned post to her attention. It may help convinced her.

 

[Fac]

Is a divorce out of the question?

Asking for a friend.

 

[Nittering Nabob]

Fair,

It’s kinda late in the season to be selecting a tree, but I suspect Mrs Gambit only wants an artificial tree because she can’t share in your annual tree pilgrimage. Just a thought.

You are now facing a Yule and marital decision. Cave to your wife’s desires or make an executive decision and go hew, haul and hoist the tree yourself.

I wouldn’t want to be in your position. You’re in a no win situation.

If you go artificial, go buy a bunch of Sentsicles. They’re the best tree scents I’ve found. On sale at Michael’s stores if you have them near your hood.

 

[84lion]

Why, yes, if I were a tree, I'd want someone to kill me for their holiday enjoyment.

Seriously, artificial trees are safer (lower fire hazard) and you can reuse them.

If you really must have the smell, my daughter found some artificial ornaments with evergreen smell.

 

[OhioLion]

@fairgambit any chance the owner of the tree farm has a UTV of some sort to allow Mrs. to ride the paths during the selection process?

 

[fairgambit]

@fairgambit any chance the owner of the tree farm has a UTV of some sort to allow Mrs. to ride the paths during the selection process?

That's a very good idea and one I am surprised I never thought of.

 

[fairgambit]

Fair,

It’s kinda late in the season to be selecting a tree, but I suspect Mrs Gambit only wants an artificial tree because she can’t share in your annual tree pilgrimage. Just a thought.

You are now facing a Yule and marital decision. Cave to your wife’s desires or make an executive decision and go hew, haul and hoist the tree yourself.

I wouldn’t want to be in your position. You’re in a no win situation.

If you go artificial, go buy a bunch of Sentsicles. They’re the best tree scents I’ve found. On sale at Michael’s stores if you have them near your hood.

Actually for us it is not late in the season. Since we cut a fresh tree ourselves, and leave it up into February, we usually go out 7-10 days before Christmas.
You may be right about her thinking. She always loved walking the fields and no longer can.

 

[PSU Mike]

These annual stories are among the best content all year. You bet I’ll be watching this closely. (And real will make for a better story …)

 

[fairgambit]

These annual stories are among the best content all year. You bet I’ll be watching this closely. (And real will make for a better story …)

Thanks for the kind words Mike.

 

[Nittering Nabob]

These annual stories are among the best content all year. You bet I’ll be watching this closely. (And real will make for a better story …)

This annual tale always ends the same …. no tree photos.

For all we know the Gambits might not even erect a tree.

At some point we deserve video evidence.

 

[Lionville]

Can technology help you out here? (Assuming you both have smart phones) You go to the farm, find a tree or two she may like, and FaceTime her to show her the trees and allow her to make a selection. She possibly can be at the farm in your vehicle to continue the tradition of bringing that tree home.

 

[ApexLion]

My dear wife and I have been married for over 50 years and have never had an artificial Christmas tree. Our tradition is to go to a local tree farm and cut down our own. This year, due to continuing knee problems, Mrs. G wants to buy a fake tree. To minimize her problems, in recent years, I have walked the tree farm and then called her when I have found the perfect tree. I do all the work and she only needs to give her approval. This year, for reasons not entirely clear (perhaps it was the "Babs" thing last year), she is asking we skip the tree farm and go artificial. I stand firmly opposed and we have been debating the matter for a week. Since we leave our tree up till February, we typically cut it down and put it in the stand 7-10 days before Christmas. That time is now upon us. Will the Gambit tree be real or fake? Stay tuned.....

View attachment 720290

Go fake like Babs.

 

[ApexLion]

@fairgambit any chance the owner of the tree farm has a UTV of some sort to allow Mrs. to ride the paths during the selection process?

I bet Babs has a UTV of some kind.

 

[fairgambit]

I bet Babs has a UTV of some kind.

More like an STD.

 

[fairgambit]

The tale always ends the same …. no tree photos.

For all we know the Gambits might not even erect a tree.

At some point we deserve video evidence.

OK. OK. Here you go. Our tree from 3 years ago. Cut it down myself and dragged it to the car. Mrs. G did all the decorating.

 

[leinbacker]

 

[Connorpozlee]

We bought a tree last year that died a couple of weeks before Christmas. After much discussion and shame, we finally relented and bought a fake tree to replace it. It was horrible (though it now sits in our front room and is being used by my daughters as a holding spot for gifts they are giving to non-family members) but we’re back on the natural wagon this year. Get a real tree, no matter how it happens.

 

[wbcbus]

Mr. G., you must remain strong, even if it is a lion you have married!

 

[rudedude]

If you both have “modern” phones ( and not ones from Gambit Enterprises!) you can traipse into the woods and FaceTime Mrs. G to show her potential trees. Of course this is predicated on cell signal at the tree farm. Mrs. G could, in essence, “be with you” and have a direct say in tree selection. Please submit my consultation fee to the offices of Mr. Potter in Bedford Falls!

 

[IrishHerb]

OK. OK. Here you go. Our tree from 3 years ago. Cut it down myself and dragged it to the car. Mrs. G did all the decorating.

View attachment 720421

Beautiful tree. I love it.

 

[ApexLion]

@fairgambit

After last year’s tutorial and assistance, I bet Babs knows her wood I mean trees. Take her, pick out some trees, text back some tree photos to Mrs. Fair. All around lovely day.

 

[Anon1683841811]

Hey fg! I can send you one of our Jersey drones to scope out the farm for the perfect tree. You can then resell the drone via Fairgambit enterprises.

 

[Zenophile]

Fair,

It’s kinda late in the season to be selecting a tree, but I suspect Mrs Gambit only wants an artificial tree because she can’t share in your annual tree pilgrimage. Just a thought.

You are now facing a Yule and marital decision. Cave to your wife’s desires or make an executive decision and go hew, haul and hoist the tree yourself.

I wouldn’t want to be in your position. You’re in a no win situation.

If you go artificial, go buy a bunch of Sentsicles. They’re the best tree scents I’ve found. On sale at Michael’s stores if you have them near your hood.

Great tip, @Nittering Nabob. Just returned home from Michael’s having scored the “O Christmas Tree” variety (which I felt had a more authentic scent to the “White Winter Fir” offering — ymmv).

@fairgambit, if you elect to go this route, Michael’s is currently offering them at a 40% discount. Also fyi: there is some assembly required.

Cheers, gentlemen.

Update: the “O Christmas Tree” branded scent definitely brings some citrus to the party.

 

[razpsu]

My wife wants a fake tree and I say no. We live in myrtle so no fresh trees to cut. Lowe’s bring fresh trees in every couple of days. So we have done that the last 5 years and they are fine! They last and drink water for weeks. Very easy as we can put a 9 foot tree in the truck and bam. It’s home! 1 mile from where we live.

 

[Fac]

As for the scent for the tree......

I remember when I was a young child and my mom purchased a can of evergreen spray to be used in the bathroom and my Dad said one day after someone used it, "It smells like someone sh*t under the Christmas tree".

 

[ApexLion]

My wife wants a fake tree and I say no. We live in myrtle so no fresh trees to cut. Lowe’s bring fresh trees in every couple of days. So we have done that the last 5 years and they are fine! They last and drink water for weeks. Very easy as we can put a 9 foot tree in the truck and bam. It’s home! 1 mile from where we live.

@razpsu remember Fair has this virility thing going, e.g., grunting, sawing, helping busty damsels with their tree. Lowe’s putting it in your car is not the same although I’m right there with you. It’s a difference in @fairgambit testosterone and general masculine vibe.

 

[ApexLion]

As for the scent for the tree......

I remember when I was a young child and my mom purchased a can of evergreen spray to be used in the bathroom and my Dad said one day after someone used it, "It smells like someone sh*t under the Christmas tree".

Lollllll!

 

[razpsu]

@razpsu remember Fair has this virility thing going, e.g., grunting, sawing, helping busty damsels with their tree. Lowe’s putting it in your car is not the same although I’m right there with you. It’s a difference in @fairgambit testosterone and general masculine vibe.

You know after my hernia and hip replacement those days are over. Even the doctor said in front of my wife twice, because I asked him to repeat it, no more work over 20-30 lbs of lifting. Now I’m 6’2 and 230 and I put down 20 yards of mulch which is when I felt my hernia go so it isn’t easy for me. So I am just stuck playing golf and watching football. Somebody has to do it. Dang it!!

ps. I did put the tree in the car and carry it in the house and put it up. That was fine by me!!!

 

[Lionville]

If you both have “modern” phones ( and not ones from Gambit Enterprises!) you can traipse into the woods and FaceTime Mrs. G to show her potential trees. Of course this is predicated on cell signal at the tree farm. Mrs. G could, in essence, “be with you” and have a direct say in tree selection. Please submit my consultation fee to the offices of Mr. Potter in Bedford Falls!

I think you’re a little late with that idea. Posted the same last night. But like a typical consultant, you sell someone else’s idea and collect a big fee. Fairgambit Enterprises is proud of you.

 

[rudedude]

I think you’re a little late with that idea. Posted the same last night. But like a typical consultant, you sell someone else’s idea and collect a big fee. Fairgambit Enterprises is proud of you.

Sorry, missed your post but nothing like stealing a good idea!

 

[bbrown]

My dear wife and I have been married for over 50 years and have never had an artificial Christmas tree. Our tradition is to go to a local tree farm and cut down our own. This year, due to continuing knee problems, Mrs. G wants to buy a fake tree. To minimize her problems, in recent years, I have walked the tree farm and then called her when I have found the perfect tree. I do all the work and she only needs to give her approval. This year, for reasons not entirely clear (perhaps it was the "Babs" thing last year), she is asking we skip the tree farm and go artificial. I stand firmly opposed and we have been debating the matter for a week. Since we leave our tree up till February, we typically cut it down and put it in the stand 7-10 days before Christmas. That time is now upon us. Will the Gambit tree be real or fake? Stay tuned.....

View attachment 720290

Has anyone seen images of this so called "Christmas Tree"?

 

[LionJim]

You know after my hernia and hip replacement those days are over. Even the doctor said in front of my wife twice, because I asked him to repeat it, no more work over 20-30 lbs of lifting. Now I’m 6’2 and 230 and I put down 20 yards of mulch which is when I felt my hernia go so it isn’t easy for me. So I am just stuck playing golf and watching football. Somebody has to do it. Dang it!!

ps. I did put the tree in the car and carry it in the house and put it up. That was fine by me!!!

Damn.

 

[fairgambit]

Has anyone seen images of this so called "Christmas Tree"?

I did post one earlier in the thread but here is another from 8 years ago. From the photos it should be obvious that I know my trees.

 

[bdgan]

My dear wife and I have been married for over 50 years and have never had an artificial Christmas tree. Our tradition is to go to a local tree farm and cut down our own. This year, due to continuing knee problems, Mrs. G wants to buy a fake tree. To minimize her problems, in recent years, I have walked the tree farm and then called her when I have found the perfect tree. I do all the work and she only needs to give her approval. This year, for reasons not entirely clear (perhaps it was the "Babs" thing last year), she is asking we skip the tree farm and go artificial. I stand firmly opposed and we have been debating the matter for a week. Since we leave our tree up till February, we typically cut it down and put it in the stand 7-10 days before Christmas. That time is now upon us. Will the Gambit tree be real or fake? Stay tuned.....

View attachment 720290

It used to be a tradition in our family to go to the tree farm and pick the perfect tree. We have a 9.5' ceiling so my wife wanted a 9' tree.

All was well for a while but the novelty wore off as the kids got older and they lost patience for being out in the cold. So we got a top of the line pre lit 9' artificial tree. The lights were guaranteed to last 3 years and that's exactly how long they lasted. Those lights are almost impossible to remove but we still use that tree by placing string lights right over top of the dead lights. It's actually barely noticeable. Maybe it helps that she uses a lot of tinsel that she saved over the years. I'd get a new tree but we haven't seen one as nice. It's not just size. It's the fullness and the color of the lights. My wife hates the bright white led lights on most trees.

Botton line is we have a small tree in the living room, a 7.5' tree in our bedroom, and a 9' tree in the family room. Also more decorations than any 5 families should have. My wife insists on going all out even though the kids have grown and only spend 2 days for Christmas. I'm old and want my life to be simple. My wife doesn't care what I want and she wins.