A family tradition – Christmas tree picking

So, after a heavy frost, a 30 minute defrost of the cars, the switch round of the car seat, and emptying the boot of the accoutrement associated with a 19-month-old, we set off to Birches Valley, Cannock Chase, our favourite spot for Christmas tree purchases.

The outfit is well set up with well sign posted parking and effective management of the spaces. We easily got a spot, but we did arrive early.

We decided to check out what was on offer before making any quick decisions, so we moseyed up the track and had an explore. As you can see, the little lady was intrigued by the miniature trees on offer as well as the beauty we brought home with us.

There are fir, pine, and spruces available in a range of sizes, as well as potted trees starting from £30.

We decided quite quickly which one was ours and after the obligatory picture with it, we set back to the tent to have it netted ready to transport it home. The sales tent contains huts where you can pick some treats for the tree, as well as tree stands and fresh wreaths. This year Cakey Bits has a stall selling hand made Christmas ornaments and decorations. You can even turn your hand at making fairy decorations on the locally based stall. As it was Small Business Saturday, we were more than happy to purchase some of the beautiful decorations on offer.

It's a tradition for us to have a taste of the foods on offer too, so after we'd packed our fir into the car safely, we tucked into some refreshments.

Santa is also there for a visit in his wonderfully decorated grotto. There's even talk of his reindeer waiting in his back garden. It wasn't too busy at all while we were there, but maybe that's because it was early.

This year the venue is supporting the Air Ambulance so once you've located and purchased your tree, tucked into some Christmas tucker, chosen your delicately crafted decorations, and savoured the atmosphere, you can then have a sit in the helicopter and show your support with a donation.

All in all it was a lovely morning. And despite being a week earlier than normal for us, we're now desperate to get the tree positioned and up! The little lady on the other hand is puzzled about the fact that there is a tree in our living room!

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