And Van Laeken’s is Shakin’…and Baling, too.
This year’s search for the perfect Christmas Tree brought us to Van Laeken’s Christmas Tree Farm in Ridgefield (4716 NW 169th St, Ridgefield). This farm has been family owned and operated for five generations, and you can tell; not just in their knowledge of all things Christmas Tree-y, but in the friendly faces, and helping hands all over the farm!
We were lucky enough to have some sunshine (and no rain) on our visit to Van Laeken’s Christmas Tree Farm, and after fueling up on some hot cocoa in the barn, grabbing a measuring pole and a saw, the search was on. We hunted Nobles, Grand Firs, and Nordmen, (and played “Marco Polo” amongst the trees) before capturing a beautiful 12′ Douglas Fir. You can imagine the trunk size on a beauty that large, and after we all took a turn with the saw, we were pooped! Come to find out, the folks at Van Laeken’s are more than willing to lend a hand (and a chainsaw :-D ) to help. They also helped us carry it back to the barn, did a shake and bale, and helped load it on the car.
I know, you’re thinking I must have spent a fortune on our tree, right? Wrong! Our total came to $22. Although the trees range in size from about 4′ to about 14′, there are no surprises when it comes to price. All Douglas Fir trees are priced at $20; Grand Firs under 7′ are $25, over 7′ are $30; and Nobles and Nordmen under 7′ are $35, and over 7′ are $40. The Shake and Bale were $1 each, and the smiles and helping hands were free!
You will also want to visit the inside of the barn for some complimentary hot drinks, and browse the wreaths, swags, and other Christmas knick-knacks for sale. The Van Laeken Christmas Tree Farm is open every day from now until December 22, 2010 from 9 am to 5 pm. You can contact also them at 360-571-8467.
Oh, and sorry folks, the 1946 Chevrolet is not for sale, I asked. :lol:
