PINE TAR MAKES FOR STICKY GLOVES

Penny Ties Down The Homeward Bound Christmas Tree

Pine tar makes for sticky gloves, a point of fact known to those who went into the country and cut down their own tree. These days’ trees that are available to be cut are on Christmas tree farms, instead of the old way where you cut wild trees growing on the mountainside or at the end of the pasture. If you went today to where the ole’ Bush farm had used to be, you will find a modern community where covenants, legalese, and restrictions, have replaced the open and friendly welcome for tree harvesters. The old tradition can still be done, but it now requires a longer jaunt out into the countryside, which can be a good thing.

The majority of open and available wild trees are now found in places out west where open space is still a way of life, where the family tradition of picking it out, carrying it home on top of the family car, and decorating the tree, is still alive and well. While the natural tree has many bad habits such as dropping needles all over the place, it is still the staple of the purist; you will find no polycarbonate trees in front of the fireplace here.

Not only is December the start of the tree gathering season, it is also when you find families out in the yard, on the ladder, or on the roof, decorating the abode in the wrappings of the Christmas season. Only the creative talents and budget limit this part of the coloration change of the house, and surrounding landscape. Western Pennsylvania has always been a big time leader in this area, and it seems that in spite of, no, in the face of the skyrocketing cost of living, this tradition lives on.

I am starting to notice that the rising cost of basic living expenses has brought hardship to many. I only hope that those so affected come to realize that their hardship is very minor compared to what you have to endure over there, in harm’s way, in the sand, and without family this time of year. What you do makes it safe for those back home to do the little enjoyable family things, without you and those who fought before you, the freedom to be in a position to take things for granted would not exist. Taking things for granted is an act that only the free and well off can do, even if they are too blind to see it.

I can say on behalf of those who do see, that we appreciate your sacrifice, your loneliness, that all of you share. You can see the love with so many organizations, groups, and individuals sending you care packages, letters, encouragement, and support everyday. Beyond all of this there are so many more folks that support you but have no way to express it in a visible manner, but they do. When you return back to your home you will see those in the background who are with you even if they have limited means to show it at the moment. Keep this knowledge close to your heart, as you may need it through this long season away from home. We do care!

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Sports Update:

Do you believe in the long shot coming in?

Pitt pulls off one of the most amazing upsets in years in this, the 100th backyard brawl, and in the national standings! Pitt who is unranked, and having a mediocre season defeated the #2 team in the nation who was expected to go the national championship game … West Virginia … the score was 13-9! The rivalry has now grown to a level that brings anything and everything to every game. I do feel for the West Virginia, as this team played their hearts out this year. Great year West Virginia! Good luck in your bowl game…

The Steelers play later tonight. Look for the update soon.

Update:

Steelers Win! 24-10...

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Keep your heads down,

Henry Hill, Plum Pennsylvania