Alexandra decided we should have a real tree for Christmas this year. I thought that was a great idea especially since my dad brought some back from Idaho. I love free. After propping up the one we chose from the yard we decided to go with the fake tree and put the real tree outside. I put the lights on and the kids decorated. I didn't care for the look of our sorry 10 year old fake tree but it would do. I only had to have it up for a month then I was planning on throwing it away. As it turns out it wasn't meant to be. While trying to sneak under the tree to peek at the only gift under it Eli knocked it over. No big deal we stood it back up. But last night while trying to rotate it enough to plug the lights into a different outlet it tipped over again and then again. The stand broke. So out with the fake in with the real. It isn't actually that bad it was just a bit lopsided the first time but makes up for its looks with its fresh smell. I love the smell of real pine. So we shall see if it can survive the next 22 days.