The Perfect Tree

Every family who puts up a Christmas tree has a different set of requirements for said tree. Some want a native tree they can replant. Others want something towering and awe inspiring. Some families I know pick out a certain type of evergreen that won't poke little fingers. Some want to cut their own, others want to unbox it year after year, and others grab them on the go at the grocery store. The trees are as different as the people who put them up.

We look for salt. It takes a salty, seaworthy tree to make it on board a boat. Many boat dwellers don't bother. They hang lights and decorate the windows, but the idea of a tree is just too rooted and frankly too difficult to bother with. But the boy wanted a tree. And "not a plastic one mommy!". So we made a list.

Wanted: a tree that can take a 35 knot gust of west wind, hold tight to ornaments when the pump out boat wakes us twice a week, and can stand all weather. Must love being out in the salt air, nosy seagulls, and chatty ducks. Must not fuss about matching or wearing anything too formal for the season. Love of travel, kids, and gnomes a plus.

We raised a few eyebrows, asking to see "the smallest tree you have please". And then giving them a few, not so polite shoves to see just how tippy they were. And then we found him... at Whole Foods of all places. He's stout, sturdy, and festive - he fits into the crew perfectly!

Zach named him Halloween. And he doesn't scare easily. He's already proven himself in a few blustery gales, never once tipping over or even dropping an ornament.

And when the sun decided to make an appearance (how very nice of you to drop in. Please, don't be a stranger), we took Halloween for a spin.

His needles took the breeze in stride and he never flinched, even when daddy tried to race a monohull. Now that's the perfect tree!