The Great Tree Debate: Real Or Artificial?

When it comes to the Christmas tree, I have long held a traditionalist view. I love the real tree. Cutting it down (or buying at a lot if need be), enjoying it's non-factory produced imperfections, taking in the fresh pine smell, stringing lights, decorating, daily watering, vacuuming needles. In spite of all this, I have an artificial tree in my home.

A few years ago, I was lured to the world of the artificial tree by the ease and simplicity of the setup and take-down. Open the box, set it up, bend the branches in the desired fashion, decorate, plug it in. The lights are built right into the tree. The entire process (minus decorating) takes less than five minutes.

My artificial tree is actually quite realistic and beautiful. They have come a long way since the days of green plastic, although I believe you can still get a hot pink one if that's your thing.

There's also something intangible about the whole 'real tree' experience (making hot-chocolate, wandering through the woods with your saw, dragging your prize through the snow, tying the tree to the top of your car). There's a sense of purpose and accomplishment that you miss with an artificial tree. I guess I will channel my energy into creating the perfect hot toddy instead.

My Vote (in a close decision): ARTIFICIAL. What's yours?