Here in the northeastern US, it’s getting cold and holiday cheer is making its appearance. After enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving meal with family, the next big event was a weekend traveling to Vermont with a few other families for a weekend of fun, relaxation, and cutting down our Christmas tree.

Breaking away from the computer and TV was a factor in what made the weekend so special. It started with a three-hour drive. The kids were excited in anticipation of seeing everybody, playing games, going places. Finding a radio station that was playing Christmas music enhanced the mood. The drive was a great time to talk about things and tell stories. Hitting the Vermont border, the first snow of the season appeared and the kids cheered.

Admittedly, there was some iPod and Nintendo DS usage in the back seat, because nobody can talk for three hours straight. Pointing out scenic or unusual sites, like the “Moose Crossing” sign, the covered bridge or the river that is starting to freeze over got them to pause their toys and got a little more conversation going.

At the house, hanging out with relatives and friends, away from cell phone signals, video games and the Internet, everybody gives attention to everybody else for a change. The fire crackles. Older generations tell stories to the younger generations. The kids crack up the parents and grandparents with their funny insights on things.

The next day, the hunt for the tree begins. The field is full of adequate trees, but the perfect one is out there. The evergreens and fresh cut pine smells terrific, and sometimes the smoke from a not-to-distant chimney. Shuffling into position to cut the tree down, a variety little “stickers” grab onto fleece jackets and gloves. While the tree is being bailed, hot chocolate warms everybody’s hands, noses, lips and bellies. Who doesn’t appreciate hot chocolate more after an hour in the cold, winter sun. All of this adds up to a great weekend of family and fun.

Families that have an artificial tree miss out on most of that fun. Getting the tree becomes a half-hour event with a trip to the basement or attic. The kids get to open a box of tree parts. Sure, it’s better than no tree, and it’s still an occasion to set it up. But it doesn’t tingle the senses with all of those outdoor experiences.

Artificial trees may be convenient, but they eliminate the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes that go along with the adventure of getting a real tree.

Real trees are to artificial trees…

…the way that meeting friends in the outdoors is to IM’ing them.

…the way that sledding and snowball fights are to World of Warcraft online.

…the way that chestnuts roasting on an open fire are to watching YouTube videos of chestnuts roasting on an open fire.

Make sure that however you enjoy your holidays that it is safe, fun, and make some great memories!

Update: I created a Christmas tree related poll.