December 1st, and its acceptable to put up your Christmas tree, right? Well, maybe not, but at least if you take an eco-friendly approach, recrimination is less likely from the festive police. And what could be more earth-warrior than going out west to choose and cut your own from a lovely wooded landscape that won’t miss a tree here and there?

Upon arrival at our friends in Blackridge, West Lothian, there were a few housekeeping tasks to be carried out. Malkie’s chicken herding skills were urgently required to secure this unruly lot. 

Time to tool up. The pouch is of course essential for maximum country kudos.

Not to be outdone, Kevin produces a fine range of woodland implements.

And you never know when a roll of cling-film will come in handy. Well, as it happens if you opt for a Norwegian Spruce Christmas tree, and you wish to avoid tree sap in your hair, this item is a fine addition to the harvesting team.

The boys stroll ahead towards Beechbrae woods, no doubt discussing strategy and technique.Thankfully, Kevin decided to share his man tools, otherwise it could have been handbags at dawn.
The Christmas tree search begins, with afternoon sun flooding the landscape.‘Nothing to report from this section, boss.’

‘Ok chaps, let us head towards this bright light before us’ ‘Aha, a fine specimen ahead’. The boys discuss the logistics. Too large? No, an 8.5 foot Scot’s Pine will surely fit in a small hatchback with ease.

The tree is dismounted from its young perch…And carried to dry land…Where it is stood upon in the service of a manly pose.Kevin realises his attachment to his trees is strong, and bids it a fond farewell with a warm embrace.Followed by a form of ancient celtic tree-blessing.
Tools of the trade – this very sharp lopper felled this tree in one swoop! (not really).
A happy chappy prepares to walk her proudly over the threshold.Stopping to admire the new fire pit, as the sun lowers. And she’s home! Ready to be smothered in decorations and death by fairy lights.Plus a few pretty festive pieces picked up along the way.