Well it's December now, so the "hold back Christmas until Christmas" campaign has accepted defeat for another year. I am a signed up member of this defeated cause. Once, decades ago now, we ordered a Christmas tree from a supposedly reputable greengrocer to be held back until Christmas Eve. We got the last reject from his supply. That was when I recognised the futulity of the cause. Now, 3rd December, Christmas panic is well advanced in the high street (or "shopping malls") stoked up nicely by TV, media and cyberspace. Today, after all is Cyber Monday the busiest internet buying day of the year. Decorations have already been furled around offices and homes all over town along with the chocolate advent calenders. Will we have the liquor ones again this year??? The shops are already one month into Christmas with their decor. Don't get me wrong. I love Christmas. I just don't like having it spoilt at the end of November rather than the end of December! And as for the mass carnage (or should that be abourage?) of pine trees - it cuts against the grain for any grower or appreciator of plants.
So to escape from the hubub I enjoy taking the dog for a walk and admiring some trees in a more naturalistic setting. These could all be Christmas trees:
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| Monkey Puzzle |
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| Douglas Fir? |
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| Larch |
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| Holly - and there's Toby in the corner |
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| ? |
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| Cedar |
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| Scots Pine |
We are lucky to have a wide variety on our doorstep, courtesy of the owners of Craig House a century ago. As a post script the current owners of Craig House - Napier University are negotiating a sale of the site to property developers who want a return. This involves 89 new homes in addition to the redevelopment of the existing buildings. Add 300 car parking spaces and there won't be so much room for trees, you can bet.
Hell: and I wanted to end on an upbeat note!
Just off now to place those online Christmas orders.
