I lost the debate. The tree came down last Tuesday. I took some pics and they actually turned out pretty well for a spur of the moment photo shoot. That made it much easier to part. I really loved every moment of having our "gorg" tree up all shimmering and glowy this season!
On the up side I was oddly ready to see it go.
... ready for the space it took up to be given back to our family's most used living space (living room).
... ready to put things back and be able to finish getting some things in order in the living room. Finish the new scrapbook nook by installing the desk. Unload the PC desk so we can start finally using it.
... ready to fully live in our living room. That seems like it's been such a very long time coming. We really have been living to the fullest in 2/3rds of the space for quite some time.

So here's a glimpse of our 2009 Christmas decor:

Just realized I forgot to take some shots of our nativity scene and the stockings while they were still up. Oh well, there's always next Christmas. I already have some new plans brewing for then anyway. We still have some fun winter decor sprinkled about. They'll do for now!