We used to keep the after-Christmas tradition of burning our beloved Christmas tree ... outdoors ... on New Years Day. It was our way of setting fire to the "old", and welcoming in the "new". We always had quite the fire-pit in our backyard, and would gather around the burning tree for warmth as we took in the sights, sounds and smells of the new year.
But in our new home, we have yet to build a fire pit, so we had to come up with another idea. And frankly, I like this one a whole lot better, as it totally jives with my "giving" theme. It is not a new idea - to be sure - but it is new to us ...
... we found a way to give to the birds ... furthering the functionality of our well loved Christmas tree. We dipped pinecones (collected in the fall) into a pasty mix of flour, water and corn syrup. Then we rolled the dipped pinecones in some bird seed ... let them dry overnight ... then strung them on rope. Voila ... gorgeous birdseed garland!
We then took our tree outside ... wrapping the homemade garland all around it ... and placed it right in front of our kitchen window so we can admire the feathered friends who will eventually flock to it.
Good for the birds ... and fun for us. A new tradition is born.
So, what did you do with your tree? There are so many after-Christmas traditions out there ... and I would love to learn more of them.
Well - we are off to DisneyWorld, provided the Maine weather allows for it. There may be a snow storm during our scheduled flight, so please pray that we get there safely. Thanks!
We will be staying at the Port Orleans Riverside Resort inside the Magic Kingdom. What a great place for taking photographs! I look forward to showing you some :)
Enjoy your week!
Love,
Jodi
... Midge gets a little "saucy" ... 
... the Kens get in touch with their feminine sides ...
... Midge trys out her stripper routine ...
... and Barbie drinks more than she can handle.
