Looks like that old tradition of getting a real, live Christmas tree is, well, alive and well. It's been a good year for area farms in the evergreen business.

Cooper's Tree Farm has seen a 30 percent increase in their tree sales.

"It was surprising because the economy hasn't recovered," said Kathy Cooper, who owns the farm with her husband.

The tree farm has been at its location on Winder Highway for almost 30 years, but Cooper attributes the boom to the farm's new online presence.

"The Internet has brought us a lot of business," she said.
Not only has it been a good year to get a tree, it's been a good year to give one.

This is the fifth year Kinsey Family Farm participated in the nationwide Trees for Troops program. The farm loaded up a record 69 trees to send to Camp Merrill in Dahlonega.

"You can't even imagine the response we get from these guys," Andy Kinsey, co-owner of Kinsey Family Farm, said. "It really means a lot to them."

The farm paid for 20 of the trees, while individuals paid for the rest. Almost two dozen more trees were donated this year than last year. With money still tight for many families, Kinsey said he didn't expect to see the increase in tree donations.

"I was surprised to see the number go up," he said, "but it's just people showing concern for other people."

This season Three Dimensional Life on Old Cornelia Highway gave away about 500 trees, twice as many as last year.

Along with the trees, the nonprofit organization created "The Ultimate Christmas Experience," where families could visit Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and s'mores, ride on the hayride and get a Christmas tree.

The activities were staffed by teenage boys in the Three Dimensional Life recovery program. The boys not only get to discover themselves, but participate in a community and help others in need.

"Being a servant, I think, is what they are getting out of it the most," said Justin Williams, head of Three Dimensional Life's design and development.

The number of trees given away reflects an increase of community awareness and support as much as it does need, Williams said. This year, visiting families had the option of sponsoring another family with a $25 donation.

"It's been a great year for families to come out," he said. "I think we provided a great service."