Cockburn Farm

For the second year, we visited Cockburn Farm for a fresh Christmas tree, and it is literally across the river from West Point where we spent the weekend. This farm has a rich history, which includes supplying some very famous Christmas trees, but also includes a closing about 10 years ago when the original owner died. Last year was the first year back open and we were excited to return after a fun experience last year. I think the word has gotten out about this place, and they've not been shy to capitalize on it, because the tree prices about doubled this year! We hunted around for a tree the boys loved that we could also afford, while managing the bad moods they were in from staying up until after 10p to watch Clemson football and waking up before 6am. Not exactly a magical family outing. I think at one point I threatened to leave without a tree if they didn't cooperate for a picture (fabulous parenting). 

The boys talked us into a 7-8 footer (!). It was affordable because it had already been cut down and was propped in the ground with a stake (the true cut your own this size were approaching $200!!). We do have very high 10-ft ceilings, but our apartment is only about 500 SF including the bedroom, soooooo. Yea. This is the largest tree we've ever had in NYC. While the workers bound the tree and loaded it, we stopped inside the farm house for cups of hot cocoa and pictures with Santa. Sounds magical, but we were all in pretty bad moods, so it kind of wasn't. Too bad. It's a cute little set-up they have. Gabriel told Santa he wanted a remote controlled car and Judah said he didn't know what he wanted. 

We left the farm, feeling a little deflated. To brighten our spirits, we decided to stop over at a BBQ place we found last year that is along the drive back to the city. The BBQ is spectacular and the portions (and craft beer selection) are ridiculous. It was just what we needed to get out of our funk.

We arrived home, set up our huge tree, which required that we store the boys' art table and rocking chairs in the Highlander (remember what we said about sacrifices living in the City?). But it brought the boys much joy, and thus it brought us much joy. They really got into hanging the ornaments this year, which was fun to watch. 

Still not sure if we'll keep Cockburn as our fresh Christmas tree place, but for this year it did the trick. Bring on Christmas!