Here it is…the one and only, from The Little Ski Hill, a place we know and love, our nation’s Capitol Christmas Tree!  It seems fitting, especially today,  that this tree is a symbol for hope.  A gift from the state of Idaho to the nation.

Alice and I joined McCall locals last Wednesday to witness the grand event.  I felt a tinge of sadness as the tree was cut but also, I felt proud.  Proud to live in the mountains of Idaho, surrounded by trees all worthy to grace the steps of the Capitol.  And proud that we’re sending this beautiful tree across our great country along with our votes for our future and the future of our children.

Idaho Mountain Gem

Alice with Cynthia, the art teacher at MDHS. Alice made an ornament for the tree!

Leaving home 😦

What boundary line?

The set-up.

Better believe it!

While we waited in town to walk with the tree, it was being staged right in front of the Hobin!  For those who don’t know the hobin (home + cabin) is our dwelling.  Luckily, our friend Ken was home with Stanley and took pictures so we wouldn’t miss it!

Right out front!

Who lives in that cute house?

We love you Smoky Bear

The send off for the tree this weekend was pretty amazing.  It seemed the entire community showed up and walked together united in our collective pride.

One tree stolen while another sent to D.C., image that.

Payette Lake gleaming in the background.

Witnessing a historic event.

Aubrey, Alice, and Noble wouldn’t miss this!

The parade was too short for this beauty.

We spend a lot of time in the Payette National Forest and it’s a lovely place.  We’re lucky to have public lands to use and enjoy.  I hope the wonder of this place extends to the many other wonders of our land and we unite to preserve it.

xo