Tannenbaum

For years, one of our most enduring holiday traditions was a family trip to a local nursery to pick out a Christmas tree.

When the kids were little, they were into it.

As they got older, it became less a treat and more an unwelcome obligation.

Message received.

Last year, Seth and I decided to start a new tradition. Instead of going to the nursery, we bought a permit and spent a day in the mountains, just the two of us and Piper.

When Ryan found out, he was slightly miffed. 

"If you had asked me," he said accusingly, "I would have gone."

So this year, I asked him.

Today, Seth, Piper and I drove over to Ryan's townhouse and picked up him and his girlfriend, Sarah.

Then we headed up into the high country.

Our first stop was supposed to be Fire Road 550, but you know how this goes: We always brake for horses.

While I took pictures with my camera, Ryan shot video with his drone.

Don't worry. He stayed way up high. 

The horses noticed, but only barely.

After a lot of futzing around, we eventually got back in the car and made our way to the destination.

Piper picked her tree first. Too bad, she didn't buy a permit for that!

Here's Ryan and Sarah's tree...

and Seth's and mine.

Once the trees were selected and cut, the cameras came out again.

I took pictures of Piper...

and the kids.

Ryan took video of everything.

Everything!

He also took this picture.

Our next - and final - stop was our favorite mountain eatery.

We shared a wonderful meal, then headed back down the mountain.

This was a really fun day. I love our new Christmas tradition, and I'm ever hopeful that next year James will participate as well!