Nestled in the countryside of Monroe, Ohio is a farm on the edge of a small lake, and fields of slowly aging Pine trees as far as you can see. Big Tree Plantation is a family owned Christmas tree farm that began a mission in 1989 to become the favorite holiday destination for families in the area.
In 2005, Becky and I were invited by her father Roger and long-time companion June, to start an annual tradition of visiting Big Tree Plantation to get our Christmas tree. Every year after, we traveled there to select the perfect tree for our December celebrations.
This would usually involve cutting down a tree in the surrounding fields or spending time to search through an old red barn for the ideal pre-cut Frasier Fir that would fill our home with the perfect Appalachian pine scent. It’s been a 17 year tradition that has remained surprisingly unchanged until this year.
Sadly, this was the first time June did not join us. In the first part of this year, she went home to be with God. We were all quietly wondering how June’s absence would impact our long-lasting kickoff to Christmas and holiday celebrations.
In retrospect, a person’s legacy and memories that we share over the years seem to continue on. This past trip to the farm was different. But, it was also a time that made us stop and take time to reflect on all the great memories we have forged over the past two decades. In some way, June will continue to be with us during future trips. Losing someone who was responsible for shaping and strengthening the excitement for our tradition, seems to have made it even more meaningful. We’ll miss you June and think of you during this time for years to come!
Our 2023 tree now stands in our living ready to be decorated. We can’t wait to see how stunning it will look once we layer on the ornaments, tinsel, garland and lights!
Happy Holidays everyone! It’s never to late to start a new holiday tradition!
Previous Years
