I just finished my mad hunt for a Christmas tree…
It makes me wanna go back to New England, cut my own down
and drive it back to LA. You never know how long they’ve been standing there.
A week, two weeks? They look good and healthy in the lot, then
ya get ‘em home and set it up right over the heating vent and they are brown
in a week.
I have an affection for the folks working the lots. I’m pissed that I’m paying that much for a tree, so I start right in with the “highway robbery” jokes, thinking maybe they’ll know I’m on to them and give me a break. I’m not sure if that ever works, but its good for a few laughs and makes it easier when I fork over the money. Now, you must be thinking, you cheap bastard! But its not the money, its just the idea that I’m paying almost $200 (welcome to Hollywood) for something that’s gonna be dead in 2 weeks, plus break my back getting it in the house (I ain’t paying for delivery) and then the thing better look good or I’ll be furious the whole Christmas season looking at it. (Not as mad as my wife is when she is stringing the popcorn and cranberries- she loves how it looks, hates doing it).
But all these guys at the tree lots seem pretty honest. I believe them when they give ya the whole schpiel. And I know they work hard for that dough… standing in the cold all night, luggin’ trees on their back, standing them up for you so you can see it better, listening to you trying to talk them down in price.
Maybe I’m a little biased… My dad used to sell Christmas trees, when he was a laid-off bricklayer. He’d come home after long nights with the money frozen in his hand- my mother would have to pry his hand open. And then he’d fall asleep in the tub, he was so tired. He did what he had to do with 6, 7, 8 kids. What a schmuck I am to worry about anything at all. The question to him is always, “wow, how did ya do it with 9 kids?” And his answer is and always was, “Faith.”
May your tree be green. May your ass be warm. May your faith be strong.
A Safe, Peaceful and Very Merry Christmas, from my family to yours.
-jm
December 16th, 2008 at 8:30 am
joe the christmas part of parenthood has just started for you enjoy, it only gets better from here ;)May your holiday be filled and blessed with love.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:32 am
Wishing you and your Loved Ones a very Merry Christmas filled with lots of love, joy, and happiness. Many Blessings to you always!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:36 am
Joe may you and ur family have the best Christmas. Much love and joy from my family to yours
December 16th, 2008 at 8:37 am
on your break and still keeping us close…GOD BLESS YOU…tell my husband Donnie..BIG MAMA is coming to rescue him…lol…LOVE YOU DONNIE
December 16th, 2008 at 8:38 am
Have fun with your christmas tree. I wish all of you and your families Merry christmas and a happy new year 2009….enjoy your break….Season greetings from germany
Love you guys Jacci
December 16th, 2008 at 8:41 am
Merry Christmas & a happy new Year to Jonathan,Jordan,Donnie;Danny&Joe from all your german fans!! http://www.n-k-o-t-b.de
Thanx for the greetings at Christmas !
See you in January in Frankfurt!
Janet(Moderator of http://www.n-k-o-t-b.de)
December 16th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Love you Joe! Growing up in FL, we always had half-dead christmas trees too
Give Barrett and Griffin hugs from us!
Merry Christmas
~Elizabeth
December 16th, 2008 at 8:43 am
merry christmas and i wish the best foryou and you family for the next year…enjoy you break!!!!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:43 am
Merry Christmas to you and your Family, Joe.
Hope your Ass is warm as well. LMAO
Kaffy
Donnie’s Thrust Bunny #27
December 16th, 2008 at 8:43 am
Joey I wanted to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas, take care and much love, Beth
ps: Happy Early Birthday. =)
December 16th, 2008 at 8:44 am
I live in East Bridegwater MA and there is nothing like those NE christmas trees! I get pissed when the tree comes down and I have to clean up a million pine needles! And even though I think I have them all those suckers seem to still pop up even after the long winter is over!! My mom was always afraid of having a real tree in the house because when she was a kid her tree caught on fire and burned half their house down. We always had a artificial tree growing up. But once I moved out on my own I started getting the real thing!
I hope you and your family have a happy holiday and I am sure Santa will be good to Griffin! My daughter is 13 and Santa has always been good to her! =)
Can’t wait to see what 09 brings for NKOTB!
Much Love and Respect,
Nickki
December 16th, 2008 at 8:46 am
I totally understand about the hassle of a tree that’s why I opted to forgo the tree this year (I can get away with it since I don’t have any little ones). Merry Christmas to you and yours Joe.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:46 am
LMAO!!
You… a frugal shopper? I never in a million years would have thought that. 
I pictured you the point and deliver kind of guy. “Yeah, I want that one. Send it to me in every color.” 
Thanks for thinking of us on your vacation. Hope you and your family have a beautiful Christmas.
Hope to see you in Nashville next year. *hint, hint*
December 16th, 2008 at 8:47 am
Hey Joe,
Thanks for the warm wishes. It was great to hear from you.
If you want a good laugh…check out this site and watch the vids.
http://txnkotbfbi.blogspot.com/
Can’t wait to see you in Summer 2009!
Much love,
Amanda
December 16th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Merry Christmas to you and your family too,I love you mr Mac
Hugs from Spain
December 16th, 2008 at 8:48 am
My love Joey,
I’m so happy to hear from you again!
Thank you for sharing.
I really want to see your christmas tree!
I can imagine Griffin happily walking around the tree!
Wishing you and your family a wonderful christmas filled with love and peace.
Thinking of you always with love and respect
y-mac
xoxoxoxoxoxo
PS
I am now listening to Funky Funky christmas:)
December 16th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Your dad is a great guy and so are you. Hope you, Barrett, Griffin and all your family have a wonderful Christmas. Enjoy the New Year/your birthday and get ready for a fantastic visit to the UK in January! Each and every one of your UK fans, especially the Mullets, can’t wait to see you. Let’s get this!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Merry Christmas Joe!! The tree will look great!!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:53 am
“Joey Joe you ready….OH you KNOW Joey Joe is ready” (couldn’t resist)
I absolutely hear you on the Christmas tree debate…fortunately for me I can’t do real so I shelled out the 200 dollars once and have a great green artificial tree
Love that your wife does the popcorn and cranberries….seems so lovely and old fashion and I love it
You dad was totally right….it is all faith and thank God for it. Thanks for sharing such a great memory of your parents…..your dad falling asleep in the bathtub totally reminds me of my dad
Merry Christmas and a blessed and prosperous to you, Barrett and Griffin
See you in UK January ‘09
LET’S GET THIS!!!!!!!
Lots of Love
Megs
Toronto, ON Canada
December 16th, 2008 at 8:53 am
Thanks for keeping us in you thoughts while you are on break. Have a wonderful holiday and I hope you enjoy your son’s first Christmas!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:55 am
Thank you for sharing your time with us Joe. These blogs mean so much to your fans! We have 3 feet of snow in northern Ontario, and I’m sure you must miss that a little at Christmas time too! Have a wonderful holiday season with your family.. here’s hoping your tree stays green and lush for at least 3 weeks
Merry Christmas! Canada will be waiting for you in the New Year,
Danielle
December 16th, 2008 at 8:56 am
I can’t imagine paying that much for a Christmas tree. I live up in the north where it is cold (and we have sooo much friggin’ snow right now!) and the trees are green and plenty! WE pay about 40 bucks for a top notch tree here. But, I have to say, I broke my husband down a couple of years ago and our tree is now artificial (with the lights already on!). I didn’t really enjoy lugging us and the kids, completely bundled up, through the snow and cold to pick out a tree. But, what do I have to complain about?
Joe, my tree is green, I keep my ass as warm as I can ’cause I DO NOT like being cold and I’m trying really hard to keep the Faith!
Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Happy Birthday to you!
Enjoy your break and thanks so much for your Christmas Cheer!
Many Blessings…Jen B
December 16th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Merry Christmas Joe, to you and your gorgeous family!
I hope the New Year also brings lots of love and happness. It will for me, i’m coming to see you in January in Birmingham, and to the two shows in London. I can’t wait. Merry Chirstmas, Happy Birthday and Happy New Year!(im coming for a hug at the O2 so watch out!!!)
Much Love
Emma. Coventry, UK. (UK Mullet) xxxxxxx
December 16th, 2008 at 8:56 am
Now I am all warm and fuzzy!
Merry Christmas Joe…to you and your family. xoxox
December 16th, 2008 at 8:57 am
Merry Christmas to all of you…I understand about the tree…no way would I pay that much…but I’m in little ole Oklahoma…
Hope you all have a great Christmas and Santa is good to you. You’ve been a belssing to all your supporters…we love you…
See you next year!!
December 16th, 2008 at 8:58 am
Joe-
It warms my heart when you recount things from your childhood. I think it humbles you just a bit to recall what your dad had to do for the 9 kids in the family, and at this time of year humble is good. There are only 3 kids in my family but i relate to the tougher times in childhood. My dad would go into work at 4 in the morning and come home at 7, have dinner with us, we would go to bed and he would spend long hours in the garage hand making our Christmas presents because buying things wasn’t feasible. Those were my favorite gifts, the ones he created with his own hands and with all the love in the world, because his FAITH wouldn’t let us go without a fantastic Christmas. God Bless you and your family, may Barrett’s hands not be poked by the needle as she strings the popcorn and cranberries (I do this every year too), and may Griffin be shown the faith you were and celebrate the real reason for the season.
Have a safe and happy holiday, a very happy birthday (36 is not so bad, and I should know), and have as much fun in Europe as you did in the states, and we WILL see you when you come back for the Summer tour!!!!
Merry Christmas –
Rebecca
December 16th, 2008 at 8:59 am
Thanks for keeping us updated. I’m sure you picked out a beautiful tree. Now just make sure Griffin doesn’t get into it. We went several years with a small fake tree when the kids were small, so it could be put up high and they wouldn’t be able to get into them and pull down ornaments. : )
Enjoy the holiday’s with your family, and make good use of your break. Looking forward to seeing you next year!
Love Ya!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:00 am
I hope your tree stays looking green through Christmas. If it makes you feel any better, we cut ours fresh every year and it still dies! I don’t know what I am doing wrong? We are blessed in New England not having to pay $200 for a tree that dies in 2 weeks. However we get to freeze our asses off walking around a tree farm for an hour or so, searching for the perfect one, and not have a clue until you get home that the one you cut is, oh let’s say 3 feet too big for your room! I will never live that one down, ever! It’s all good! It’s Christmas, be happy, enjoy every second with your cute little boy! Christmas through the eyes of children is a very special thing, don’t ever let the small stuff ruin it for you or for them.
Many Blessings to you and your family this season! Hope to see you again in the New Year!
Much Love!
Sherrie L
December 16th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Dear McIntyre family…
Joe your words are alway so heartfelt and beautiful. Even though you’re being serious, you still add a nice sense of humor for good measure. I feel you about the Christmas tree. We have a family tradition of going out and cutting our own tree down.(Although I live in Idaho, it’s a little easier to do that than it is in L.A.) Though this year finances are a little tight, so we bought one at a tree lot. The tree we chose was 9′ tall and was $80. (You should move up here!)I did ask the guy when it was cut down, and he assured me the day after Thanksgiving. Still seems long considering we won’t take it down until your birthday!! Oh, and why do they put heater vents right by the window in houses. Don’t these contractor’s know people put their Christmas trees in the window?? You’ll have to ask Jon about that one for me:) Anyway….I hope you and the “fam” have a wonderful, and joyous Christmas!! It was very nice to hear from you.
Stay safe, healthy, and always…stay positive!
Love, Dannell and Kahlaila
December 16th, 2008 at 9:04 am
I wish I still had my Christmas spirit with me but I lost it 8 years ago when my parents split. It’s okay though, it may come back to me someday. You guys gave us fans a really wonderful early Christmas present and made us beleive in all things impossible so, thank you for that. May you guys have a Merry Xmas & a Happy New Year. Thank you for taking us on this wonderful journey. Until 2009…
Ava, 31
San Francisco, CA
December 16th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Joe~
You poor thing!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s from my family to yours.
Love~
Sarah
p.s. Happy Early Birthday (just in case, you don’t blog before your birhday)
December 16th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Awww…don’t worry about your tree, Joe; it’s just another memory for your family. Enjoy your holidays, and thanks for sharing that story with us.
Have a Merry Christmas! a Happy New Year! and a Happy Birthday!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:04 am
Happy holidays to your family from ours as well. Thanks for taking a moment off from your personal time to blog about your family. We really appreciate it.
Keepin’ the faith in cold Chicago. Much love to you and your family this holiday season and have yourself a great birthday! And a happy new year.
2009 is going to be magical for NKOTB, I just know it!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:05 am
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you and your families! I hope to be able to see you guys in concert again in 2009! Much love from the South!
Sabrina V
South Mississippi
December 16th, 2008 at 9:05 am
Merry Christmas to you too….and happy birthday
December 16th, 2008 at 9:06 am
Ah Joey….
HOpe you and yours are having a restful break.
I really love your blogs; they’re so thoughtful and heartfelt. It warms my heart that your family is so tight-knit.
Have a blessed Christmas, a Happy Birthday, and a spectacular New Year!
2009 is going to be THE YEAR!
♥~ Kimber Ann
December 16th, 2008 at 9:06 am
Awww Joe. So nice to hear from you but I know what you mean about the Christmas tree. We just put ours up lat week after going to a ton of places but Lowes had the cheapest and nicest looking tree so we got ours from there.
Just wanted to wish you and yours (along with the other guys) a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Cant wait for the summer tour
XOXO
Martina
PS Did you ever find that fedora hat we got you?
December 16th, 2008 at 9:07 am
Great to hear from you Joe!
Love your blogs.
Got my tree yesterday;) real trees rules!
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR AAAAAAALLLLLLLLLLLLL YOUR FAMILY!
HOT HUGS FROM COLD POLAND;) XO OX XXX OOOOO X
December 16th, 2008 at 9:10 am
And so traditions continue… this is the beauty of the season… thank you for sharing Joe and may you and yours have a blessed holiday!!! Please don’t leave us supporters again…
December 16th, 2008 at 9:11 am
Oh Joe, this is why we love you so! You are so down to earth and wonderful. So happy you have not forgotten your roots. I hope you and your absolutely gorgeous family have a very wonderful Christmas. Enjoy every second with your baby boy. It just gets more fun every year!!!!!
XOXOXOXOXOX
Malina aka anilam18
December 16th, 2008 at 9:11 am
Sweet fancy moses…$200 for a tree??
Yikes! Well, I guess it is Hollywood after all. Hope it stays nice and green for ya Joe. Ours looks like it is going to be sprouting fresh buds by Christmas Eve! We cut it down about a week and a half ago and it is going strong.
Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas! All the best!! xo
- marie
December 16th, 2008 at 9:11 am
Merry Christmas Joe! Every Christmas from this one on will be so wonderful now that you and Barrett have Griffin! I hope your tree is perfect on Christmas morning.
Happy Holidays to you and your family.
Love, Vanessa
http://nkotblvr08.blogspot.com/
Arizona
December 16th, 2008 at 9:12 am
Hey Joe… thank you so much for the nice blog, I hope you and your family have a Great Christmas and Have an Awesome Birthday and New year!!!!! 2008 has been a great year having you guys back… Here’s to 2009!!!!! I’ll keep the faith.. I love you loads.. Stay Blessed!!!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:12 am
Hi Joe!
Ever considered to get a potted pine, and replant it once the holidays are over?
Thanks for keeping us posted even during your Christmas break!
Have a wonderful holiday season, enjoy Christmas, and I wish you,and your family a very Happy New Year!
Love from Hungary,
Rita
December 16th, 2008 at 9:13 am
I remember going out with my parents and brothers looking for the the perfect tree for our living room. My dad setting it up and then trying to keep our dog from drinking the tree water. While decorating my brothers and I would debate as to who would get to hang up our traditional “ugly ornament”. Ah, memories!
Just imagine the memories you’ll create with Griffin as he experiences his first of many Christmases. Have a great holiday and an awesome new year!
Much love to everyone!
Carolyn
December 16th, 2008 at 9:16 am
Joe-
Enjoy this fabulous time of year with your family, it truly does go by quickly. Thanks for the blog.
May your holiday season be filled with everything you desire.
Peace, warmth and happiness!
Love always,
Krystal Gibson
and Family
Warroad, MN
December 16th, 2008 at 9:16 am
That was beautiful Joe…
Happy holidays to you and that gorgeous family of yours!
xoxo
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
December 16th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Hi Joe
nice to see that you guys havent left all your fans out while on vacations from the tour!!!
Just a quick Happy holidays to you and your Family from my family and I
cant wait to see you guys again in 2009!!!!
kisses and hugs to all
xo xo xo xo xo
p.s you should get the other guys to blog too !!!!
p.s.s. Happy early Birthday wishes may all your wishes and dreams come true!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:17 am
Oh Joey Joe. You’re going to the wrong lot! Home Depot has the same trees for less than $50!
Merry Christmas. Get some well-deserved rest. See you next Summer!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Ohooo JOe!
Thanx…
Very Merry Xmas to your family too!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:19 am
Joe, I hear ya on that. Like some of the other girls on here I have a forever green fake tree. Slap on the disney ornaments and the lights and I am good to go. I have 4 kids and trust me it is a pain in the ass just to do a fake tree. Now it will be my 8 month old daughter’s 1st Christmas this year. YAY four kids and final, Now I have to think of a NEW place to put the tree so that we can all enjoy the thing but the baby can’t get to it. Then there are the cats, dern it… forgot about the cats for a moment. AH HELL I will make it work LOL
Enjoy your Christmas with Griffin and many, many more. OH tell your wife that once Griffin gets old enough she can pass the “threading” of the popcorn and cranberries on to him! It does make life easier!
Tina
December 16th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Thanks Joe! It’s like you read my mind; just an hour ago I was wishing for a Christmas note from you guys.
Also, I appreciate your sympathy toward the tree guys, but how cold can they be in LA? Here in Connecticut, I could understand. They’d probably be charging $200 here too. Ever consider a lovely artificial tree?
I’m with Barrett on dreading putting up the decorations, but loving how they look when they’re up, especially the outside lights. Do you all drive around the neighborhood looking at displays? That was always one of my favorite things as a kid. Probably not as pretty out there without snow!
A very merry Christmas to you and your family. Thanks for everything this year. And happy birthday!
Love,
Katie
xoxo
December 16th, 2008 at 9:21 am
Man I am I ever glad I have a very nasty allergy to trees!
I would not being payin’ $200 or even $20 for a tree to look like crap in a week.
Plus I really like my fake trees, less mess to clean up and you don’t have to wait for “christmas tree day” for it be picked up from your curb.
Wishing you and your family a VERY Merry Christmas!
Lots of holiday hugs,
Deidre
Ontario, Canada
December 16th, 2008 at 9:21 am
i agree with your father. faith makes it. you don’t look at situations by sight but walk by faith. Your father must have been a Christian to know that. This year i am not putting up a tree fake or real nor am i putting up lights. I just don’t think it is right for me to celebrate Christmas without my kids. I will rejoice about the “Lord’s ” birth but i will not be giving presents away or anything. Best wishes this Christmas to you and the rest of the guys and your families.
May God bless you with memories filled with love,
Karen Koons and family
ps this helped me with my walk with God. It reminded me i need faith too.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Joe, may you and Barrett and Griffin have an absolutely amazing Christmas - dead tree and all. I’ll think of you when I look at my $35 beautiful green tree I chopped down myself! LOL (Okay, so hubby and the oldest two boys sawed it down while the younger boys and I watched! Same thing!
Oh, and having been through 4 little boys - be prepared for guarding the tree 24/7 from someone who wants nothing more than to pull it over!
Merry Christmas! You keep that ass warm yourself! xoxo
Heather in Ohio
December 16th, 2008 at 9:29 am
Awww - what a great blog!! Thanks for sharing JM
I finished my tree yesterday, but it’s Summertime & warm down here in Oz, so mine is fake. Otherwise it would die before we got it home!
When I was in LA last week (in my ‘holiday time’ after coming for the AMA’s & the last 2 shows) we would drive by those ‘Tree Farms’ in LA & wonder the same thing about how long the trees had been there… great minds think alike!
Thanks so much for my 3 mins of facetime after the last show Joey, I really appreciated it. Happy decorating & Merry Christmas to you, B & G!!
Luv,
~ Manj
(Melbourne, Australia)
PS - thanks heaps for the blog in your down time - it means alot
December 16th, 2008 at 9:29 am
That was beautiful Joe!!
I hope that you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a safe & happy New Year ♥
Much love,
Sandy from AZ
December 16th, 2008 at 9:33 am
very cute story . merry Christmas and a happy new year to all . i can not believe Christmas is next week . i love Christmas . it always bring joy in life . after my mom was gone from me and brother and my daddy after Christmas she stay with us until she past away couse she loves this holiday one of her fave . i love my mom i love my tree and i love my hubby and my family . it is about baby Jesus and his love for everyone . new kids have a merry Christmas and happy new year , enjoy your family and freinds i can not wait to go be with my inlaws i love them to much happy new year 2009 tammey
December 16th, 2008 at 9:36 am
Love it! I hope The Mac Family enjoy Griffin’s 1st Christmas. It really makes it more magical when you have little ones.
Just think, if the tree turns brown you can spray paint it like Brandon Walsh did on 90210. That was the first thing I thought of when you were saying it would turn brown. Merry, Merry Christmas…and a Funky New Year!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:37 am
Joe,
What a great message hidden in your blog! During this time of the year, with the state of the world as it is…most people only have “faith” to cling to help them to make it through the day. Faith in the promise that tomorrow holds a world of new possibilities…
Thanks for checking in with us…and have a great holiday season with your family!
Love,
April
Donnie’s Thrust Bunnie #17
December 16th, 2008 at 9:40 am
May you enJoey Christmas morning with your family. May it be filled with many smiles and lots of laughter. Take lots of pictures to remember the excitment and joy on Griffin’s face as he experiences the wonder that is Christmas. May your New Year be filled with constant reminders of the true joy and excitement you have brought to so many of your fans. May you ALWAYS know how delighted we are that you have choosen to share part of your life with us.
Merriest of Christmas Wishes to you and yours from me and mine!
Kelly from Ohio
December 16th, 2008 at 9:41 am
Wow, it’s great to hear from u! Have a great time off with ur family. U deserve it! Have a very Happy Birthday(12-31. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thanks so much for making my dream come true by u guys coming back! Get rested an come back to us A.S.A.P. Summer Tour 2009! LET’S GET THIS! Much Love,Allison.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:42 am
Hey Joe Mac….
Thanks for the Blog! We have really missed you guys! I hope your enjoying your vacation and time with your family for the holidays!!! Remember to cherish this time with Griffin they grow up so fast!
Stay warm and safe…Much love always….mwah!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:43 am
Joey Joe - thank you for your blog and for keeping your “supporters” in your thoughts. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year…see you back up in NEW ENGLAND in 09 Baby!
Love always,
Kerri
December 16th, 2008 at 9:43 am
Joe,
Thanks for the Christmas wishes! Hope you and yours have a fabulous holiday as well. Stay safe and warm! Rest up…the journey is just beginning!
Love,
Dawn
December 16th, 2008 at 9:45 am
Joe - Wow $200 for a X-mas tree I hope it is huge! I’ve never paid more than $25 for mine. I have not even had the chance to buy mine yet I am hoping I get the chance today. X-mas trees are a pain but the best part of all is decorating them with my family. My children and I love it and although the mess is a big complaint I wouldn’t have it any other way. I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas and I look forward to seeing you again next year. Take care!
Love Always,
Irene
December 16th, 2008 at 9:46 am
You just made me cry!!
Merry Christmas Joe.xx
December 16th, 2008 at 9:50 am
$200, wooow. I just paid $40 for a beautiful 7 ft tall balsam fir..(it smells DEVINE, btw.)-Even better now after reading your blog-hahaha! Ahh, NE @ christmas time. I wouldn’t give it up for love nor money..ok, maybe-but I’d still come HOME for the holidays!!! Last year a friend of mine came out with me to get my tree..we got 3 inches of ice/snow in 2 hours, and to top it off the workers accidentally tied my doors SHUT! Nothin’ like getting back into ur car “Dukes of Hazzard” style when its 10 below out….
Happy holidays, everyone!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:51 am
Dear Joe,
Merry Christmas to you & family.It’ll be so exciting for your little boy :-))
.
Thanks 4 your blog, you are on vacation and it is so nice that you took the time to share your thoughts with ppl you don’t even know (even if we’re “supporters”).
You made me smile
Much love to the McIntyre family,
K.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Merry Christmas to you and your family too Joe! I’m sure you will have a fabulous time watching Griffin experience the magic of Christmas!
Thank you too just for checking in with us fans. It means a great deal. I hope you enjoy your break from the tour and have a safe & happy holiday.
Can’t wait to see you in 2009!
Much love and appreciation,
Leah
(”Group M” girl from Tacoma!)
December 16th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Hi Joe
Ah Bless you!!! and your family and I hope that you and your family have a great christmas and a wonderful new year!
Oh and Joe if we don’t hear from you before 31st December A HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. Have a great day!!
and about the tree get a plastic one it saves all the hassel and you can store it for another year!!! EASY!!!
Take care
LOVE AND HUGS
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
December 16th, 2008 at 9:54 am
Merry Christmas McIntyre’s! Enjoy that tree-even if it does turn brown in a few days *wink*
Blessings to you and yours,
AmyJo & family
December 16th, 2008 at 9:54 am
Hi Joe & Family!
What a great family story. Thank you for sharing it with us. Enjoy your time off with your family and have a very Merry Merry Christmas from our home to yours.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Your FL Girls,
Corrie, Kim, and Pam
December 16th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Joe, you and Jonathan should seriously consider writing memoirs! Both of you are amazing at entertaining us with your stories. Thanks for sharing that and I hope you and yours have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! Enjoy the break and we’ll see ya next year…
Krista
December 16th, 2008 at 9:57 am
$200 for a tree!! are you mad! thats like £120!!. We used to get a 6ft for £10..ok that was like 23yrs ago but still. I’d want it hand delivered and dressed and then disgared for free when finished for that. Buy an artificial tree, it lasts for years and you don’t have to pick up after it. Those needles get everywhere. We had a high pile brown carpet as I was growning up so once those needles turned brown and stuck in the carpet you we standing on them for months afterwards. Needless to say, we have an artificial tree now.
Have a wonderful chritmas with your family!!. see you in january.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:57 am
AWWWW Joe…Thanks for the blog and the well wishes!! Don’t worry, my tree is always green…it’s atificial!!!…Love it!! it’s even pre-lighted, so I don’t have to put the lights on..LOL…
Merry Christmas to you and your family!!!
See you guys in the next year!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:58 am
Aw Merry Christmas to your family and you too. It is always a joy hunting for the right tree.. Especially in California.. lol..
December 16th, 2008 at 10:05 am
JOE!! Thanks for that! I hope you have a Merry
Christmas!! I miss you guys, but hope your having
happy holidays! I’ll be thinking of you as always.
PS just buy a fake tree next time lol
Your #1 fan stephanie WV
December 16th, 2008 at 10:08 am
Hi Joe
What a great story- you do have a way with the words :0)
I hope you and your family have a very Happy Christmas
And I hope your Christmas tree does you proud and twinkles through the season.
Have great break and see ya next year
sarah
December 16th, 2008 at 10:11 am
I have to agree with the first comment. Being a parent causes you to look at everything different and you have just begun with all the fun Christmas’s ahead! I have a 4 1/2 year old and 2 year old twins. The oldest is so excited this year, he loves everything, the lights, the tree (which we paid $60 for here in Bloomington, Indiana), the decorations and of course Santa! The 2 year olds don’t quite get everything yet, but next year will be a blast! I have to get a real tree every year. There is just something about finding the right one, watching my husband break his back to get it in just the right spot and watching the kids get so excited!
May you and your family also have a safe, peaceful and Merry Christmas and remember the real reason we are celebrating!
Love to you,
Kara
December 16th, 2008 at 10:12 am
Wow $200 for a tree…I miss L.A but I guess not
this LOL. Not that trees last any longer here in
Florida…a friend of mine bought one a few
days ago and it somewhat still looks like a tree
LOL. But it’s the thought and fun that counts…
Thanks you so much for keeping in touch and the
nice Holiday wishes. Happy Holidays to you and
your family!!!
Sue in warm and sunny Orlando, FL
December 16th, 2008 at 10:13 am
$200.00…FOR A TREE….Joe, my advice is just invest in a fake tree…if you want the pine smell go buy it from Bath and Body Works in one of those plug ins
Merry Christmas to you and your family and Have a Very Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:16 am
Cool story, warmed my fellow New England heart (New Haven, CT). Happy ho-ho to you, wife and baby!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:18 am
I laughed my ass off when i read this!
“Now, you must be thinking, you cheap bastard! But its not the money, its just the idea that I’m paying almost $200 (welcome to Hollywood) for something that’s gonna be dead in 2 weeks, plus break my back getting it in the house (I ain’t paying for delivery) and then the thing better look good or I’ll be furious the whole Christmas season looking at it.”
and then i was thinking, DAMN!! 200 for a tree???? That is pretty ridiculous!!! I can see why you would call it highway robbery!!! You know in a way, when i read your blog, you reminded me of a cheap version of Clark Griswold!!! LMAO!!!
I really wish you and the rest of your family a wonderful Christmas filled with love, wishes and plenty of egg nog spiked with rum!! Especially dealing with the in-laws!!!
See ya in 2009!
-tara
December 16th, 2008 at 10:21 am
Joe,
Thanks so much for sharing your tree experience with all of us who are waiting with beaded breath to hear from any of you during your time off. Thank you for taking the time to blog, we all appreciate knowing what is going on with you and yours during this wonderful time of year.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours, may it be blessed with love and happiness.
Can’t wait to see you in 2009!
Jamie xox
December 16th, 2008 at 10:22 am
Hey JM,
Thank you for that blog…especially in times like now, we tend not to think about things like that, and take for granted of those who are out there, working hard as they do. And you are right, its not about the money so much…Xmas is all about being thankful for what you have and keeping “faith” that things are done for a reason and will be done for a reason….gift giving is great, but giving yourself to those who are not as fortunate…thats xmas.
(sigh)
Stay warm and safe during the holidays, Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family… look forward to starting a new year all over again with new exciting ventures!
~patricia
P.S. Thanks for the thought-provoking blog once again…:)
December 16th, 2008 at 10:23 am
Dear Joe,
Good to hear you are back to doing the normal family things!
I wish you and your entire family a great X-mas and a very happy New Year!
Love,
Merle
Holland
December 16th, 2008 at 10:28 am
I’m glad to hear from you. I hope u and your family have a wonderful holiday. I hope your ass stays warm as well. LOL
December 16th, 2008 at 10:30 am
Thanks for the blog, and yes welcome to Hollywood where trees cost $200 and die within a week. See that is why I bought a good ole fake tree. I love it, well I don’t love not have the smell of a Christmas Tree , but I love that I can put it up (lights already strung) right after Thanksgiving and it is just as green by the time Christmas comes. I do have to admit that I miss going to the lot and searching for the perfect tree, but my tree never dies.
Ok and keep in mind this is coming from the Jew who bought her first Christmas tree at the age of 25. So I don’t have a whole childhood of growing up and having family tradition of finding a tree.
Hope you and your family and have Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Can’t wait to see more of you in 2009.
All my love,
Erica
December 16th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Joder que bonito!!!!!!!!!!!! Have a Merry Christmas and rest for continue with tour
Love ya, Anabel
December 16th, 2008 at 10:35 am
Hey Joey Joe
What a good chrismas-tree-story from real life. It’s always a pleasure reading your thoughts and experiences.
Today I was just ealier thinking about you guys living in LA. Because a earthquake woke me up this morning, I almost fell out of bed! We here in Denmark, are not use to earthquakes and it measured 4.8 on the Richter scale, making it the strongest here since 1904. I know it’s a small one compared to the big ones in for example LA. But when your not used to it, it was a pretty scaring way to wake up!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:36 am
AWWWWWWWWWWWWW!! Joe you are so CUTE! I heart you! What an exspensive tree! My goodness! We got ours at Lowes and only spent $30 for a 6ft tree! I think everything is more exspensive in LA! Go figure! I am sure your tree looks great and Griffin will love it! I am sure he is already getting into everything and fascinated by the tree! You are just begining with him! Enjoy every moment! My daughter Giselle is 4 now and I miss her as a baby! BTW, she loves your!! She was singing cover girl last night after her bath!! LOL Anyways, enjoy yourself this X-mas! I am sure you and Barrett are having a blast with Griffin! Take care hon! Have a WONDERFUL Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Love You always and Forever, Marie
December 16th, 2008 at 10:38 am
…but it now i know how it feels like!
A merry merry chrismas and a happy new year to you, and to you family.
I’m soooo much looking forward to see you the UK in januar.
Xoxoxo
Lotte
December 16th, 2008 at 10:39 am
Awww…thanks Joey!! Love ya!! Merry Christmas to you and your family too!! mmuahhhh!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Thank you Joey!! Happy Holidays to you and your family as well!! Enjoy the time off!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:40 am
Happy holidays to you and yours, Joe. Thanks for entertaining us and all that you do.
God Bless!
StaceyGurl
December 16th, 2008 at 10:42 am
Joe,
You are the best! I needed to hear your humorous, real, and down to earth perspective on the holiday season and life in general right about now. Thank you! Take care of that beautiful family of yours.
Hugs,
Jen W
P.S. Don’t forget to turn the fire place down so Santa won’t get burned! Have a funky, funky Christmas!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:44 am
Have a Merry Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to you and your family. That is so cool that you decorate your tree with popcorn & cranberries.
December 16th, 2008 at 10:46 am
Right back at ya, sweetie….all the best to you and your family! Finding that perfect tree and paying out the wazoo is half the battle- the other half is listening to your dad spewing obscentities and flinging sap and wood chips everywhere while trying to whittle the stump into the tree stand, only to have it lean over, year after year….ah, the memories..
XOXO
Nic
December 16th, 2008 at 10:46 am
and the lesson learned????DONT PLACE IT OVER THE HEATING VENT!!!!!!lol!!!
HAPPY CHRISTMAS Joe,Barret & lil Griffin!wait till next christmas!he will be right into it then!thats what brings the magic back,seeing the look on a childs face when they see that santa has been!i know i have 4 kids!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:53 am
Omg! Joey, I love real trees but found after all the b.s its just easier to ride the wave and get a fake one! Yea buying a fake tree here in lovely Milwaukee, WI…. Where just 20 miles north you could cut down your own or even go a mile down the road to a lot to get one from the Christmas Tree Sales man. My parents go every year to the Christmas Tree sales man as if he were a saint. They buy a tree in hopes that it will be a beautiful tree and every year we have something to worry about. This year the tree tipped over. O no this isnt the 1st time, this happens almost every other year! lol.. But after all the comotion is done they nestle on the couch, fireplace roaring and enjoy the sight. Of course after two weeks of the poor tree sitting in front of the heating vent you notice more and more needles on the ground. Its amazing how much you end up resenting vaccuming during the holidays. But on the blessed morning when everyone is gathered around the tree opening presents I take a moment to sit back, sip my murmosa, and take it all in. Maybe a real tree isnt so bad after all. I mean its brought our family together every year since before I was born. Now I get to share that with my own daughter.
Hope you and yours have a blessed christmas. Baby’s 1st christmas, shows you how many blessings you truely have in your life
Love always
Your “lil” sister,
sarah sopa
Milwaukee, wi
December 16th, 2008 at 10:53 am
What can I say that hasn’t already been said 100 times over! Have a blessed holiday! Hope to see you next year!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:55 am
Hey Joey!!
Thanks so much for the thought Christmas blog!! Sometime we get so caught up in the materialistic part of Christmas we forget the really important things!! Thankyou for sharing a part of your family history with us:) Its so easy to complain about everything lately but when we look at what our parents and moreso our grandparentswent through to bring their kids a wonderful Christmas, everything seems sorta trivial, doesn’t it? Other than a few minor bought gifts, every year my cousin and i have been giving homemade gifts…while the younger generation now hopes for the latest Wii or DS, its great to see the expression on my parents, family and friends when they see something made just for them.
Also as you talk bout doing the traditional family holiday events(searching for a tree) i can’t help but think bout how this will be my first year working both eve and day. maybe that’s why i can’t seem to get into the spirit as Christmas Eve is our annual Karaoke Potluck Xmas Party:( Having share your family traditions and blogging even with the US tour being over helps bring the cheer: thankyou!!
BESO BESO!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:56 am
lmao i always love ur blogs but 200 bucks for a tree im with u that is ridiculous come on down here to bama and u can get one for 20 bucks lol hope u and ur family have a great christmas love ya!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:57 am
I am picturing Joey Mc lugging this huge tree into the house…and seeing Barrett swearing at you because you are dripping pine needles all over the floor. At least that is what use to happen at my parents house in Vermont. When they moved to Florida they decided to go artificial. Cheaper and cleaner (mom hates those darn pine needles).
What does Griffin think of having a tree in the house? Is hopefully that little dog of yours doesn’t use it as an indoor toilette!
Have a wonderful Christmas. Thanks for the smile today.
Robin
Dogwalker73
Jon’s Dog Walker #1
December 16th, 2008 at 10:58 am
Hope you and your family (along with all the guys) have a great Christmas!! Enjoy the time off and especially enjoy the time with your family.
December 16th, 2008 at 11:00 am
That really made me smile, thank you! Seeing as this is my first year in my own place, i’ve chickened out and opted for a fibre-optic one (red, gold and silver) but my parents went for the traditional tree and i had this exact same conversation with my dad because he used to do something similar. He’d smile at what you wrote…Merry Christmas!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:00 am
oh wow! that must be a very nice and tall christmas tree..:)
but then it takes a few years before it grows like that.
Have a Merry Christmas filled with love, faith, joy and peace.
and btw, it’s my birthday too!
see you in germany!
jessie
December 16th, 2008 at 11:03 am
may you and your faimly have a wonderful christmas and very happy new year! thanks to all the new kids for coming back to us!!! you guys are awesome merry christmas to you all hope to see ya in summer 09!! hugs and kisses from oklahoma!! there isn’t anything better than a real tree even though it makes a mess and dies …
December 16th, 2008 at 11:04 am
awwww baby, you’re the sweetest. I’m wishing you and your family a merry christmas and a very happy new year. God bless you Joe McIntyre. I love you so much.
xoxox
~~Turkish Braveheart Yelda~~
December 16th, 2008 at 11:05 am
Joe,
Thanks for sharing your Christmas tree adventure!! I always enjoy your blogs. (you should really write a book someday…you are so good at writing!)
I’m so happy for you and your family being together and having a great time. Have a wonderful Christmas!
Btw, should you receive a lamp in the shape of a leg with fishnet stockings, don’t get too upset at your wife when she “accidentaly” breaks it while watering her plant. lol I love that movie! One of my favorites! “Hey kid!”
Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Always love from the Heartland,
Kaprelle
December 16th, 2008 at 11:06 am
Joe, your dad is wonderful. I’ll never forget the day we met him… I have a long story and lots of pictures- maybe I’ll get to tell you about it some day.
I think he brought up a damn fine family.
God Bless you, Joe. And all of your family- old and new!
<3 Natasha
December 16th, 2008 at 11:10 am
$200 for a Christmas tree?! Oh sweetie! you guys need to head over to Home Depot!! The tree lots around here area ALWAYS a rip off! LOL How big of a tree are you getting?! And I’m sure Barrett looks just adorable stringing the popcorn and cranberries…this year you’ll have to keep Griffin from eating them all!
Enjoy the holiday season…we gripe about a lot, but we have to remember to be thankful for what we have because there are so many without HALF of half as much as we have.
Love, Kisses, & Holiday Wishes!
<3 Jess
December 16th, 2008 at 11:17 am
Joe! I love ya hon for always keeping it real…you and all the guys. I hope that you found the perfect Christmas tree…but $200 is still a lot of damn money for a tree…And as for your Dad, it’s amazing the values our parents have instilled in us that we keep close to our hearts and treasure. Enjoy your Christmas with the family and may you have a very blessed 2009.
Much Love.
XoXo,
Jenn
December 16th, 2008 at 11:18 am
Hi Joe!
My dad missed the smell of the fresh pine though. So I bought some fragrance oil that smells like Christmas tree LOL.
Merry Christmas to you and your family as well!
I understand your frustration with Christmas tree lots. That’s why I have a beautiful plastic tree.
It’s almost the same as bringing home a real tree, you just don’t have to water it, vacuum around it everyday or dispose of it after the holidays. LOL
You and the guys only just finished your North American tour and I already miss you all!! I am soooo excited for the Summer tour, and I am already saving all my pennies to make sure I can afford all the tickets I want to buy
Take Care, Enjoy your Holiday, and I hope to see you and the guys very soon.
Luv,
Darcie-Lynn
December 16th, 2008 at 11:21 am
I’m not one to normally leave a response after reading blogs, but I laughed so hard over that ‘may your ass be warm’ comment that I scared my co-worker! You are too funny, Joe!
Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas. And thanks for making me laugh!!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:23 am
You’re not a schmuck.
You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and.. you still have those deeply ingrained values of a much simpler life, hard work, the basics… your success has obviously not gone to your head, and so why should you be faulted for thinking that $200 for a dying tree is a bit extravagant? I’m with you on that one! But it’s also nice to hear that you clearly have compassion for the workers and aren’t dwelling on the negative. A good example for the rest of us!
Thank you for sharing this little… moment in time amidst the holiday craziness, and a very touching memory from a loving family. Your parents did good by you guys.
I’m sure Griffin will have plenty of those types of memories to look back on when he’s all grown up, too.
Happy holidays to the entire McIntyre clan. Be safe and have fun!
Much love,
Essentia
aka Meg
December 16th, 2008 at 11:24 am
Joey,
Thanks for the blog. It was very inspirational.
I hope you & your family have a great Christmas and a safe & healthy New Year! I can’t wait to see you all again in ‘09!
Take care.
Jessie Lina
Sonoma County, CA
December 16th, 2008 at 11:24 am
LOL @ you. The reason that you still HAVE all that money is because you worry about things like this! I never knew that your dad sold Christmas trees when he was laid off from being a bricklayer. I’ll never forget that story now. Thanks for sharing a piece of your holidays with us. I hope you always will.
December 16th, 2008 at 11:28 am
Joey you truely are beautiful inside and out. Hope your family has a great Christmas and you have a great birthday. hope to see you in 09!!! come to the midwest!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:30 am
Joe, your blogs always make me smile. Very vivid picture of you haggling for a cheaper tree pops into my head.
May your tree stay green this holiday season. As for myself, I also went the fake tree route. Though, it really is almost like buying a new one every year b/c before my husband and I got married he used to throw them away so he didn’t have to move them, lol. We’ve now been married a year and this is the first year we didn’t have to buy a tree!! 
So you see, we all have our Christmas tree frustrations, but they are worth it for those few weeks we get to enjoy the lights and garland. May you and your family have a very blessed Christmas!!
xoxo,
Amy
PS: The story about your father is very uplifting. We are expecting our first in May so the idea of only one makes me nervous!
Faith is truly an amazing thing! God bless!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:32 am
Awww…thank you Joey! I can’t believe a tress is $200…wow! The most expensive in ol’ Bristol, VA is $100:) Like you said, welcome to Hollywood! Do you miss New England? I miss the summers up north, but I like the winters in the south!
Anyway, thank you for taking the time to write a blog, we supporters:) certainly appreciate it and get a kick out of it!!!! We’re like “look a new blog!” It makes our day for sure!
Have fun this Christmas…I hope St. Nick comes to all of you! Have a very Merry Christmas! God bless!
Love,
Kimberly
xoxoxoxoxo
Blockhead since 1988
Hope your a#$ is warm too:)
December 16th, 2008 at 11:32 am
Back at ya Joe!!
Have a wonderful holiday season. It’s good to be reminded how hard our parents & grandparents had it so we are even more grateful for all we have!
Love ya,
Erin
December 16th, 2008 at 11:32 am
BTW, I want to try out for So You Think You Can Dance b/c I have a pretty cool choreography to Twisted inspired by some of your moves blended with jazz, hip-hop, and belly dance! I’ll dedicate it to you if I make the tryouts and get on air:)
December 16th, 2008 at 11:34 am
Twas the night before Christmas and as I looked round my tent,
I couldn’t believe all the money I’d spent
For trains and dolls, for trinkets and toys
Some for the girls and some for the boys.
I looked round once more to be sure things were right;
The kids were all in bed for the night.
I set up the track for the train I bought Ted,
The train went round twice and the battery went dead.
I put on my cap, my gloves, and my coat;
I went to Ames and over to Zayre.
You guess it my friend, no batteries there!
As I left the store a thought came to me,
I had one in the remote of the color TV.
Well, I placed that remote in my wife’s favorite chair
I was ready for Christmas with hours to spare.
When out came my wife and punched that remote
And then said to me, “The TV’s broke!”
So on with the coat, the gloves, and the cap
Out in the cold about ready to snap.
I went to K-Mart and stood in that line
From 8:35 ’til a quarter past nine.
As I came to the checkout, my heart leaped with glee –
There was that one lonesome battery just waiting for me.
When from my behind I seen this hand slip
And grab that battery with a real tight grip.
I wheeled around and what did I see?
This giant of a man glaring down at me.
Well, I remembered an ad I had seen on TV
Buy a Big Mac, get your batteries free.
So, I bought me a burger I didn’t want…
They were out of batteries, so on with hunt.
I finally found one at Servi-Star,
Paid for my purchase and made for my car.
When I entered the door of my humble shack,
My wife said, “What’s this battery for I found in a sack?”
I was out there in the press, the push, and the greed
To buy me a battery I didn’t even need.
At last I relaxed in my easy chair,
TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS….
(Sorry so long but I hope you get the chance to read this…)
When this still small voice came out of somewhere.
“You’re ready for Christmas with toys, tinsel, and tree
You’ve got it all together, but what about me?”
I fell on my knees and cried, “God, what have I done?”
I got caught up in the madness and neglected your Son.
The best gift of all you’ve given for free
Your Son, Jesus Christ, for sinners like me.
You sent Him to suffer the shame and the loss,
To shed his life’s blood for me on the cross.
Well friend, I’ll never forget ere I rest ‘neath the sod,
The the greatest of gifts if given by God.
December 16th, 2008 at 11:37 am
Joe, May you have a blessed and wonderful Christmas with your family as well. You may have gotten your tree the same time as our family got ours and I hope it was before the downpour yesterday because it’s pretty messy to bring a wet tree in the house! We were able to get a 7 ft. scotch pine for $35 and it was pretty fresh and smells wonderful! I’ve seen those $200+ trees that were like 10 ft. high and flocked! Honestly, I don’t think trees are worth that much and there are some years to where my family had to do without one at all. No, I don’t think you are a “cheap bastard” (kinda harsh, don’t ya think?), what you said made perfect sense.
Merry Christmas,
~Special K~
December 16th, 2008 at 11:37 am
I cannot tell you how much I always enjoy reading your blogs! Have a geat Christmas with your wonderful family!
Love,
Renee
December 16th, 2008 at 11:38 am
awww! thank you merry christmas to you too! i hope your tree stays green!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:41 am
I wihs you and your family a Merry Christmas! Your are going to have so much fun with the little one there this year! Take A picture of your tree so we can all see it! Cranberry and popcorn sounds cool but I would be afraid my cat would get into it and then get my dog into trouble. she likes to knock things off for the dog so the dog can get into trouble! LOL
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Your #1 Fan In Rockford TN
Tonya
December 16th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Hi Joey,
I just want to wish you and your families a safe and happy hoilday seasons!I hope you also have a great birthday too! I love you and take care now.
Love Alway’s
Laurie
December 16th, 2008 at 11:47 am
Hello There!
I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Enjoy the break!
Jeannie
December 16th, 2008 at 11:47 am
From stripper poles to faith…
New Kids has something for everyone!
Merry Christmas Joe!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Joe,
You should really come to Missouri, our Christmas trees are a lot cheaper here.;) Anyways, I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you tree stays green for a couple weeks and Griffin manages to leave the tree in one piece.
I love reading your blogs and look forward to seeing you in 09′
BTW my ass is warm…;)Only cause I sit on it way to much waiting for my favorite group to post blogs to us.
Peace, Love and Chicken Grease…
Love Ya,
Jennay
December 16th, 2008 at 11:50 am
I forget what I was going to say…I’m having trouble getting my mind past the $200 Christmas tree. $200?!?!
I hope you can keep that little boy of yours from taking off the ornaments, and eating the popcorn and cranberry garland. If you think Barrett gets irritated when she’s spending all that time to string it, just wait till she finds it in pieces under the tree, with a trail leading straight to Griffin.
I wish you and yours a very merry Christmas. God bless your parents for all the hard work and love they put into raising all those kids! Their work ethic and faith paid off; you turned out alright!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:51 am
Faith is what it’s about my man. You’re dad is a very wise man.
You could have totally worked it in there too, being in hollywood and all…home of the palm tree lined streets all decorated with christmas lights. LOL)
That’s something you should pass on to your children. There’s not much better than good movies, good music, and faith. It doesn’t get any better than that.
<3
~~Cheri~~
(P.S. Don’t think we didn’t notice you didn’t say palm fronds.
December 16th, 2008 at 11:52 am
It’s so nice that you guys are thinking of us over the holidays….because of course we think of you all! I can completely understand your frustration with the tree situation. I got our tree about 1 week ago, made sure I put water in and it’s already dying. Not brown yet, though it is close. *pout*
I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year from my family to yours. *HUGS* And cherish these years…I know everyone says it, but they go by so fast. We miss you guys already…can’t wait for summer 09!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:52 am
Oh, yeah…btw, here in OK you can get a 6′ tree for $20!
LMAO
sukah
HAHAHAHA
December 16th, 2008 at 11:56 am
Hey you!
Long time no hear from
. Now don’t get mad at me but the visual of you lugging a 6-8ft tree into your house with branches probably going up your nose just cracks me up…hahaha.
I miss having a Christmas tree but my apartment is small. I had an artificial 5 footer one year and that was almost too big for my living room.
I hope that you were able to find your perfect tree this year
. That takes a lot of patience and committment on your wife’s part to string those things. I could never do it! I hope you’re being a good hubby and helping out 
.
So…my tree isn’t green, my ass is trying to stay warm (its flippin cold out there but you live here so you know), and I’m trying to hold on to my faith every day
.
You and your family have a great Christmas! Maybe I’ll bump into you at The Grove one of these days
. Its one of my favorite places in this city.
Merry Christmas! From “your girl” (that’s how you always greet me so I thought I would throw it in there for a change
. Thanks for making me smile and being the one who has had the ability to see a bad situation happening and trying to make it better. Hope you understand what I mean).
Till next time.
December 16th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Hello Joe,
Thanx a lot for your post
You can keep it for many years and it’s always green 
I think I have the solution to your problem! I know it’s not the same… but I’m sure you won’t get upset if you buy a fake Christmas tree
Have a wonderful Christmas too with your family!
Take care
Isabelle
December 16th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
I love that you guys keep the posts coming even though you’re “on break” for the holidays.
I agree, get a fake tree!
We have one, and it’s great!
Merry Christmas to you and your family…..enjoy it with your little one, it only gets better from here!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Hi Joey,
Thank you!!
I hope you have a verry merry christmas too, with your lovely wife and beatifull son. Give them a big hug from me!!
I know i will have a merry christmas, i’m gonna celebrate it with all my friens (all NKOTB fans lol)
I also wanna wish you a Happy Birthday!!
See you in 2009
Love you always
Blessed it be!!
Hugs and kisses
A Big fan From Holland Nancy
December 16th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
merry christmas Joey to you and your family and have a great happy New Year.
December 16th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Hi Joe,
I know what you mean about the trees. My sister and I got ours the weekend of Thanksgiving and I just got a chance to decorate it this weekend. We got a new kitten in June, so she has been having fun knocking the ornaments off the tree. That little rascal! I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Love, Peace, Hugs and Kisses Always,
Jenny
December 16th, 2008 at 12:16 pm
I love that you can’t get all sentimental and mushy without throwing in some smartass remarks first… good ‘ol Joe.
I think it is so sweet that the Macs do Christmas the way it was meant to be done. Real tree. Homemade decorations. And a warm ass… that is important. Personally I find it ridiculous that I had to bust out my electric blanket last night – IT’S LA for cryin’ out loud!
But – fa la la la la and all that crap, right? I’m not a Grinch, I am actually quite in the spirit this year, I just grew up where it was 80 degrees on Christmas day and after opening presents you went and laid out… our red and white on Christmas were our tan/burn lines.
I trust Griffin will have a mountain of presents and lots of wrapping paper and bows to play with while he ignores his toys… as it should be
Merry Christmas Macs!
– Sara
December 16th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
Hey JOE! Its your “click this” girl!
I’d give anything to have seen you lug that tree into your house I wish we had the opportunity to go and pick a real tree out and cut it down but that is one con of living down in Mobile, AL! Good thing is the weather! LOL 72 degrees here today!
I hope that you were able to find your perfect tree this year. I don’t mind having my PRELIT artifical tree as I don’t think I would have patience with stringing a real tree but the smell of a real is the BEST!
You and your family have a great Christmas! Enjoy your well derserved break!
From your “Click This” girl! Thanks for making me smile and can’t wait to see ya’ll again.
PS Happy EARLY Birthday!!
<3 Melanie
December 16th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
Hi Joey!!!!
What a price for a Christmas tree, don´t it?Well Joey for the next year a plastic. During all life, don´t insects…and look like a real tree. Hahahahaa. And then for a adult Griffin.
It was a joke.;) Joey enjoy the Christmas with your family.
I wish you a very good end of the year and a very very very good begin of the year.
All the best for you and your family.
A lot of kisses and hugs from Spain,
Cristina.
December 16th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
Seasons greetings from Salford, Manchester, UK. Hope you and your family have a very merry Christmas.
Love, Tracy-Anne and Tamara.
December 16th, 2008 at 12:25 pm
TacoTacoma Misses You Joey, but I hope you have a wonderful Christmas, and enjoy your time off with your son, and your wife. :o) a faitful fan.
Melissa
December 16th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
Hi Joe,
AAHW,the best wishes and merry christmas for youre family to!
Love you and see you soon in January on the M&G WOOHOO!!
Kiss,esmeralda
December 16th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
AWWWWW…..JOEY!!! READING YOUR BLOGS MAKES ALL OF US “SUPPORTERS’ FEEL THAT MUCH CLOSER TO YOU! I WISH YOU AND YOUR BEAUTIFUL FAMILY A SAFE AND HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! SEE YOU IN THE NEW YEAR!
SENDING YOU LOVE ALL THE WAY FROM THE NORTH POLE(WINNIPEG),
TAKE CARE,
LISA
December 16th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
Joe, thanks for the blog! It is nice to hear from you during your holidays. As a parent of three myself, I hope you enjoy the magic of the season thru Griffin’s eyes. This time of year takes on a whole new meaning with them around!! Enjoy your holidays, help Barrett out with the tree ;)(plus think of the things you can do under the tree after it’s done, lol)!!! Merry Christmas!!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Merry Christmas to you and yours, too, Joe! Hope you have a wonderful holiday.
And, don’t forget to count your blessings: That’s what makes Christmas so special!
Love ya!
Lisa
a.k.a. Cherry
December 16th, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Life is all about Faith, isn’t it?! You’re so right…all the hustle and bustle and stress of the holidays mean nothing in the end. The holiday arrives and you wish the feeling could last forever! Cherish the memories and continue to create new ones…family is everything. Happy holidays and God Bless you and your family.
Greetings from snowy, cold, and windy Chicago!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
Joey,
Did you know out here in Cali there are lots out in the mountains where you can go and cut your own tree? Ya, about an hour or so outside of LA. Look online for next year. We used to go cut our own trees at those lots, nice trees too.
Your daddy seems like a good man…how hard he worked for Mac kids and look at the product…beautiful and sweet Joey Mac, the world couldn’t ask for someone more special!!!
I don’t know how parents did it back in the day…they had MANY kids, few bedrooms and little money and ALWAYS seemed to make it work, and Christmas always seemed sooo special…ya gotta give it to those parents, they were and are literally angels. Now, its seems hard to even have one child and make it work…and my husband and I don’t have children yet and we’re still struggling. Christmas isn’t special anymore. Maybe I’m just jaded, maybe its the times we live in, but I still would like to find that magic of yesteryear.
One thing I know though is Christmas came EARLY for me when I FINALLY met you and the rest of the guys at the San Diego show. That was one Christmas wish I had EVERY year as a teen, PRAYING that I would meet you someday and IT CAME TRUE, just 18yrs late
Joey, I wish all the love and happiness to you and your family this year…may it be special and magical!!!
Love, Veronica
December 16th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
I can’t even imagine what a Christmas in LA is like. I’m a Buckeye and while we don’t always have a white Christmas we do have a cold one. Something about being warm outside and in the sun doesn’t seem like Christmas to me. I imagine you are getting use to it by now.
Happy Holidays Joe!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Love you Joey! Hope you and your Family have a merry Christmas!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:49 pm
Merry Christmas from our family to yours. We hope you enjoy your break and we can’t wait to see you again in the summer!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Hey Joe!!
. I know they are less healthy because they hold all that dust and junk, but we never had a real one when I was a kid so why start now. Minnesota has plenty trees too, so next year you could always come up here if you would like. 
Thanks for the story, it was funny (in a way, I don’t wish anyone to have to pay that much for a tree dang)! This is why my tree is fake. No hunting them down (except in a deep dark closet), no needle clean up, no watering needed, no highway robbery. Still have to lug the thing up and down the stairs, but that’s what my husband is for
Did you get to go visit Santa yet? That may not be a fun experiance for the first couple years, just to warn you. Little ones tend to not like the bearded man in the red suit. My youngest is 3 and my girls and I will be meeting a fellow supporter and her boys to go see Santa tomorrow night. We’ll see if she likes him this year. Cried her eyes out the last two, just as her sisters did when they were her age.
Thank you so much for thinking of us on your break and for the wonderful holiday wishes! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from me and mine to you and yours! To the other guys and theirs too! God Bless.
All my love,
Theresa S.
December 16th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Happy Holidays to you and your family :=) Take care!
December 16th, 2008 at 12:57 pm
I love this blog. I have certainly gone thru those emotions from picking out a tree to negotiating prices to acknowledging other people’s circumstances to finally appreciating the many blessings the creator has sent down to me.
I think everything we think & feel is a normal process. It perfects our character. As we look back at all the bloppers & triumphs, there is almost nothing more satisfying than living the life God gave us to live. If our parents made it thru trying times, we will make it. If God’s son lived & died the worst circumstances, we can live through ours…. By absolute faith as you mentioned.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU & YOURS!!!!
Sincerely,
Sylvia
December 16th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
KEEP THAT FAITH BROTHER….. WISHING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND SAFE REST OF THE HOLIDAYS, FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS.
LOVE ALWAYS,
MARIBEL AND LITTLE RICHARD DAVID.
MIAMI, FL
December 16th, 2008 at 12:58 pm
Faith…….. I hope you have enough to share this year! I need some sent my way….
I hope you and your family have a very wonderful holiday and a great birthday……..
December 16th, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Joey Joe!
how do you cope with no snow for Christmas?
At least the tree will be lovely…orI hope it’ll be!! 
Wishing you and your lovely family a Very Merry Christmas and many blessings in 2009!!
Jo jostar_76@yahoo.com
December 16th, 2008 at 1:02 pm
I hope you and your family have a very wonderful holiday and my your New Year be a great one. As for the Christmas tree, that will be a great story to share with your grandchildren one day. I totally feel for you, the things parents will do for their children.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:06 pm
You know what Joey! That was a very sweet message, that almost made me cry! Your to sweet of a man!
I can’t believe Hollywood, paying $200 dollars for a Christmas tree. I can’t remember the last time my family had a real tree… I miss that! The look, the smell, and you can’t forget all the work to keep it looking great! Haha! I’ve never had the popcorn on the tree, that’s a classic! 
I should try it! I love this time of year, with all the Christmas music, Christmas smells, Christmas joy, and can’t forget baby Jesus! So my tree will be green(since it’s fake. :(). My ass will be warm (since living in MN and WI, it’s all about the layers.). And my faith will ALWAYS be strong. Lots of love from my family to yours! Merry Christmas to everyone, and Happy New Year… May there be more excitement in the year to come! XOXOXO ~ Stacy G. from WI
December 16th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
Joe,
Have a very Merry Christmas a Happy New Year and a very Happy Birthday from my family to yours.:)
Michelle from Arizona.
December 16th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
Hey Joe,
Take care and hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New year. Love ya.
Love your blog. I agree with you on the whole tree thing. We have had a fake one for awhile. It isn’t the same and I miss the pine smell but I don’t miss the watering the tree everyday, it dying and the ornaments falling off. I would never think that you are cheap. You have worked hard for your money and should be annoyed when something like that happens.
As for my ass being warm, well only if I am inside the house. Yesterday it was below zero and come Sunday it is going to be just as cold. Aren’t you glad that you are not here in Colorado?
T
December 16th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Damn, I miss you guys soo much!
COME BACK! but I know , DEFINITELY KNOW, that you guys deserve the break!
I’ll wait forever for you guys! Love you JOE!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Joey Joe!
You are so sweet, they are heartfealt lovely wishes especially about keeping our asses warm
I feel your frustration about the tree..it’s important! You should have seen my other half’s face last night as he finally brought in our tree..feeling all pround of himself, only to then find it was bent, well leaning to one side
Nevermind, he fixed it by placing an empty peanut butter jar in the pot which straightened it a bit.
Like your wife, I ‘hate dressing the tree’ also (love hate thing) but love the finished effect. I bet your little boy is going to love your tree, and the whole Xmas! I’m glad you can enjoy this special time with your family.
In a way you guys feel like our family to us fans..oh and your wife is so sweet also, I met her at the Boston concert
PS your parents did a great job with such a big family..I mean look how you turned out!
See you and the other guys in UK, Manchester in January! Honor xx
December 16th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
Hi Joe!
wow! 200 bux for a christmas tree!!??!?!! shoot.. here i am complaining about a 40 dollar tree. That’s one disadvantage about being rich and famous. Sorry joe but look on the bright side. Your wife and son will love the tree!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
HEY SWEETIE YOU MADE MY DAY LMAO !YOU RE SO RIGHT ANYWAY SWEETIE HAVE A GREAT TIME HAVE FUN AND
KISSES 2 YOU
December 16th, 2008 at 1:30 pm
Well thanks for that Joe. Going to get a tree in the falling freezing Chicago weather today. MAKES ME SO EXCITED!! LOL!!
I have a tree stand story that is so funny, but I am not going to share it because it is to long. But lets putt it this way. Virginia {wear my hubby was stationed for active army} the sold real tree’s BUT NO STANDS FOR THEM!!! So I feel your pain about the LA, BOSTON THIN! And, tell your wife I will be joining the hang the popcorn and lights haters club right along with her tonight!!!
Be Blessed, and have a very marry Christmas and happy BIRTHDAY/NEW YEAR! From the Deyarmin family!!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
OOO BY THE WAY! I can male you our beautiful lush green fifty dollar trees from the mid west! Witch I STILL THINK IS TO MUCH FOR SOMETHING THAT IS GOING TO BE USED FOR TWO WEEKS! AND DIE!!! If you want me too. Just let me know for next year LOL!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
THX THX THX JOE FOR KEEPIN´ IN TOUCH W US EVEN IN YA
SO DESERVED BREAK!!!
WELL, THAT´S REALLY EXPENSIVE $ 200 FOR A X MAS TREE, HUH?
HOW BIG IS IT? WOW MUST BE VERY BIG!!!
WELL HERE IN GERMANY A MIDDLE SIZED TREE WOULD BE ABOUT $ 50 TO $55 DOLLARS!!!
I HOPE YOUR TREE S GONNA STAY GREEN AS MUCH AS CAN BE!!!!!
A MERRY VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO U AND YA FAMILY TOO
HAVE BEAUTYFUL, NICE RELAXING HOLIDAYS.
LOVE AND KISSES TO Y`ALL
SANDY
December 16th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Boah… they take 200 Dollars for a christmas tree in Hollywood?! This is sick. The tree must be made of gold… Hope you found a cheaper one
Also merry christmas to your dad! I have a chain of lights around my rubber tree- no needles, no 200 Dollars, no dead tree 
Cheers, Sonja
December 16th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Hey Joe!
No I totally understand the whole $200 for something that’s going to die in 2 weeks..hence why I don’t really like getting flowers! I know a lot of people are into real trees, but even with faux trees, it’s cheaper and you don’t have to worry about any “brownage”! Have a great Christmas with Barrett, Griffin, and the rest of your family!
Keeping my ass nice ‘n toasty,
Julia M. XOXO!
December 16th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
OHHH almost forgot! Happy early BIRTHDAY, JOE!!!!! =)
XOXO,
Julia M.
December 16th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Thank you for taking time out of your holiday to let us into your life a little & recount a childhood memory! May you & your family have a peaceful holiday season. Hope to see you in 09!
Devon
December 16th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
Oh Joe,
Thank for the message.
In between all our problems, Faith still remains.
Have a Merry Christmas you too and a big hug to Barret and Griffin.
God bless you all
Love you
Claudia from Colombia
December 16th, 2008 at 1:56 pm
OMG before I forget HAPPY early BIRTHDAY
LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART!
CLAUDIA
December 16th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
That was beautiful Joey!
I hope you and your family enjoy your Holiday as well =)
Hugs and Happy Thoughts…and a little Christmas Joy*
Mika
December 16th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
I enjoyed that Joey…
Faith is an important part of life that is often times over looked.
My father was the baby of 15 kids all from the same parents and I think of my gramma everytime I feel sorry for myself after having four…
Just think that because you paid 200 for a xmas tree you made a difference in someones life whom is maybe just like your father with kids to feed.
Merry xmas
and as a parent who’s been there….griffin will just want to play with the box.
December 16th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
Thnx for the blog. It makes me think about my dad and how important the family is especially around this time of the year as I live far far away from them..
Happy holidays!~
Rachel
December 16th, 2008 at 2:07 pm
HI Joey Joe!!
Happy Hanukka and Merry Christmas too, from all your
fans including me and my family here in little Israel.
how is barrett getting ready for hanukka? she is jewish right?
tell her i said happy hanukka. and to the little cutie
Griffin as well.
love you joey!!
israeligirl joeyfan
israel
December 16th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Wow 200.00 for a christmas tree. Guess I wont be complaining about spending 20.00 on one…Gotta Love Oregon. Just go out in your back yard and get one…Hope you guys have a great holiday, and a Happy New Year.. Love ya guys.
Angeline
December 16th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
now i knew there was a reason i always loved you joey!
lol. you make me laugh. yea theres no reason to appologise for being upset about the price of that tree…200 dollars??? holy crap!!!! i just asked my fionce and he said that a tree out here only runs you 80 dollars. yeah… thats nuts. and i realize its because you live in hollywood but still i think thats crazy to jack up the price that much. but hey you gotta make a dollar. i hope you and your family have a great christmas and i hope your wife is successful with the popcorn and cranberries!!! 
to the rest of the guys… merry christmas!!!!! i love you all and i hope you all have the best christmas ever!!!!!
~ashley elizabeth
cleveland, ohio
December 16th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Joe you are such a genuine guy… the time you take for your fans is so appreciated! Your humor is the best… you crack me up all the time! I too am a sucker for the folks out there busting their humps for themselves and for us this time of the year. Let’s face it even those of us who live close enough to nature to cut down our own trees don’t always take advantage. This is why we need the guys freezing their asses off running the tree lots. I mean really, what would the schmucks like us do without the folks like your Dad who make this time of the year just a little more convenient for… everyone really. For me, at the end of the day the holidays are all about the family. I hope you and yours are enjoying your time together and I hope many wonderful memories are made and maybe even traditions started with your little family.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas (when I hear Frank sing this song I think of you) and the most kick ass of New Years!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Hey Joe,
you’re just adorable! Thanx so much for thinking of us during your break - I had a terrible day at work, but your blog made my day!! Only five more days to work….I really love christmas time and I’m already looking forward to decorating at when I come come at the weekend. That’s my job now-a-days…I still hope we’ll get some snow, but usually it rains or it’s just grey and depriving at christmas in Germany. Can’t imagine how it is to have sunny weather…
Anyway, have a very merry christmas with your family, enjoy your time off - I’ll be thinking of you guys all the time! Can’t wait to see ya all in January and February in Germany!
Thousands of hugs and kisses
Nathalie
P.S.: At the weekend I’ll go to the cinema watching the Till Schweiger movie - so looking forward to seeing your part!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Hey Joe,
Thank you for sharing that story from your childhood. I love having a real tree but this year had to have an artificial one. I love the smell of the real trees, so I just buy a candle that smells like one. We always had real trees when I was a kid and I remember my dad trying to negotiate a price. He always ended up paying $10 less than what they wanted. He never paid full price.
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! And also an early Happy Birthday!
Take care,
Amiee from MA
P.S. We are supposed to be getting some snow tonight. Love it!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
Many blessings to you and your family … enjoy your time together.
P.S. I must say that I love the blogs … it brings a human element to these boys I idolized so many years ago. Thanks for sharing with us.
December 16th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
LOL … my boss in LA couldn’t believe the trees here cost $25 and his was always $200 for the same damn thing lol.
We wrestled two and a half hours before getting ours straight in the stand and not making a run for the picture window …
December 16th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
OMG Joe!! That’s exactly how I feel about my parents! They did so much for all of us iwht so little to work with!!! That (Love and Faith) is the reason for the season!!! Makes me believe more and more how special you guys are!!! Love you all and see you back on tour in 2009!!! Please announce dates soon as a Christmas present to us!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
Hey Joey Joe. I hope this “hiatus” is treating you well. I’m sure you and the guys were looking forward to having a break. I’m with you on the cold but I’m sure you didn’t get the wet snow storm we got here in Vegas yesterday. We get hit every few years so it isn’t all that unusual. We know it’s the end of the world once it starts snowing in SoCal! :p
Cute story about your dad. It really showed how much you admire him. Hope you found the tree that will make you happy to stare at for 2 weeks.
Take care this holiday season!
Maria
Las Vegas
December 16th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
NICE. Thanks for the heartfelt story. Wow, and I thought 40 bucks for a tree is high. I’m still looking for a tree for my kids and I. I can’t buy one so we’re looking for one to cut. The presents we’ve gotten so far are under a chair in the living room. My parents had nine kids and we were fortunate that we had land to look for one on every year. Lesson: Always replant so you’ll always have trees.
You gave me an idea of a tradition to start every year with my kids-the popcorn…haven’t done that before.
Have a wonderful Christmas! and New Year! to you and your family.
sally
Mississippi
LONG LIVE THE BLOCK!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
Wow Joe..you never cease to amaze me, even during you time off you take the time to stay in touch with us “supporters”. Thanks for the words for thought and I feel you on the whole tree thing, Im in San Diego and the cost for a tree is about the same…but hey whats Christmas without a tree…right?!
God Bless You and your beautiful family as well and take care always…
…..yours truly, Babyphat1904
December 16th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Wow, with that second to last line… you should write greeting cards.
Happy Holidays to you and your family.
-KAT
December 16th, 2008 at 2:46 pm
awwwwwww joe what a real nice blog….. stick to the fake trees it cheaper ha ha ha ha..
roll on jan ITS UK’S turn now to get our facetime!!
MULLETS RULE!!!!!!!!!!
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX MEL XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
December 16th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
We decided to buy a artificial tree this year and it’s just not the same, but I did buy a real wreath so at least I have the smell of a real tree in my house. Hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas. I know the highlight of my christmas will be seeing my 17 month old son open present and I’m sure watching your little guy will be the highlight of your Christmas. Lots of love and God bless.
Love,
Natalie
December 16th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Joe,
Thanks for the nice words..
Enjoy the Holidays:)
C-ya in Amsterdam soon!
Sharon
December 16th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
Awww thank you for that Joe. That definitely put a smile on my face. I just had “thee” conversation of the year with my girlfriend over the phone about how everyone is going through some trying times. I’m so glad that you wrote this because you put it all in perspective and ended it asking us to consider our faith…and during this holiday season..I think we can all use some of that right now.
Thank you also for checking in….good to know you guys are still around and keeping us informed. I can’t get enough!
December 16th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
Hey Joe…. thanks for the Christmas wish. I do not blame you for not wanting to pay 200.00 for a tree.I waited for the after Christmas sale and found mine but of course it was not real. That was a sweet story about your dad, I would not know about the cold I am from the South it does not seem to get a s cold down here. You and your family have a wonderful Christmas and I hope you have a wonderful Birthday this year! lots of love Mandi
December 16th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
Thanks for the blog Joe! Merry Christmas for you and your family! Have fun decorating the tree…
Love
Dian
Jakarta - indonesia
December 16th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
Hey Joey Joe! Its your favorite “southern belle” here to reply to your blog. It was a great one. You are so thoughtful and sweet, you little leprechaun! What a wonderful story about your da, and a reminder of how wonderful and down to earth you and the other guys are. That’s why we the fans love you guys so much. You are indeed the salt of the earth Joe, and as someone who’s only 11 ,onths older,-actually, we’re the same age, sort of, well, for 11 months anyway! (My b-day is Feb. 13, 1972) Anyhow, I really appreciate your blog this time. It was a reminder too of what the holidays, and more imnportant family are all about. From one “descendeant of Dublin”, or Irish American to another-’top of the mornin’ to ‘ya, and have a safe and happy holiday-you and your family. That goes for the other guys too. Love you all-bye!!!
Love Always,
Beth Wade, 36, TN
December 16th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Im cheap! I go for the fake trees! One time expense! Miss the fresh pine smell, but thats why they sell it in a can now! Nice story, kinda made me all mushy inside! Love you may you and yours have a merry christmas, and you know who to call if you get a back ache from all that hauling? littleluciex of course!xoxo
December 16th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
Hi Joe! That was a sweet message. I am glad you still are spiritual after all your success. And, with a two and three year old, I can say that kids truly do make Christmas so much more special- so you can really appreciate the tree when you see the look on your child’s face! god bless you, and Merry Christmas! Anne-Marie
December 16th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
Thank you for leaving us a message! I must check this site 10 times a day looking for something from you guys! Take care and may your family have a very Merry Christmas! God Bless! Kim
December 16th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Thx for Taking the time out to Blog Joe I Hope Your Family has a Verry Merry christmas and a Happy New year!
And May ur Tree Stay green if not go buy a Fake one!!! lol
December 16th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Greetings JM!
Thank you for you sharing your Christmas story with us………… I’m sure many of us can sympathize.
Suggestion? You may want to look into getting a “fake” tree. Yeah, it’s not real, may not smell like pine, BUT you don’t have to worry about it dying, needles dropping off or watering it!
Between our two fake trees (one small, one tall) we make Christmas easy by choosing how big we want to go each year. When it’s all over and done with, ou just take it down and throw it back in the box for another year!!! EASY!
Anyways, thank you for the Christmas wishes and make sure you keep ya ass warm so you can shake that ass when you come back to the T-Dot for the next tour!!!
A very Merry Christmas to you and yours! All the best in 2009!
December 16th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Joe, Thanks for thinking about us your “supporters” even when you are on break. I hope that you got your tree for a reasonable price (you could get a ton of trees for $200 in rural South Carolina) and that it doesn’t turn brown until after Christmas. Make sure that you enjoy the time with your family and remember to ’soak it up.’ Take lots of pics of Griffin and enjoy Santa.
Merry Christmas and God Bless,
Pennie (Fan4-Ever)
December 16th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Thank you, Joe, for sharing that story. You really touched my heart.
I don’t think you are cheap! You were just raised to be thrifty. It’s hard to let go of those types of values, no matter how much money you are blessed with. I hope your family has a wonderful Christmas!
Much Love,
Trish
December 16th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
Merry Christmas Joe! Thanks for the blog-my fam always just bought the fake trees-but they aren’t as pretty I think and don’t smell good! See ya in ‘09!
Sassyashli
December 16th, 2008 at 3:09 pm
You know, I met Joe at a soundcheck and he came off a bit cranky and jaded. He reedemed himself with this blog. Good job, Joe.
December 16th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Merry Christmas Joey,Griffin and Barrett!
xoxo
Anna
December 16th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Hahahahahah I so understand the three story, I sent my hubby out for a tree this year and he was totally shocked about the prizes , so what did he do…
He thought If I have to pay this much money for a tree I’ll take a BIG one.
Well he did and now it doesn’t fit in our living room hahahaha
Just love that Barret is making her own decorations
Well have a great and lovely Christmas with your family and enjoy your time off and I’ll be seeing you in London.
Love and kisses Natasja
December 16th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Merry Christmas Joe to you & your family! Love ya & hope your tree stays green for at least 2 weeks!! $200 is crazy!! Here in Pittsburgh, our tree was $40!! You can come spend x-mas here
Take care & enjoy!!!
~Kathy
December 16th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Joe,
Thanks for making me smile on this cold brrrr day. I remember the one year when we got to cut down our own tree. It was a lot of fun, but I think it cost more than buying one on the lot.
We’re not really doing Christmas this year. Things have been pretty bad for us. My only highlight has been you guys and the wonderful fans I’ve met this year, and again, I’m so grateful for that.
I’m hoping we can keep our asses warm this Christmas season! At least our woodburning stove is still working!
Love you guys! Merry Christmas! Here’s to the faith that I’ll get to see you guys next year!
Deborah / Emalea
dwh802@msn.com
DBBG# 1, DTB #11
December 16th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Thank you Joe for always keeping it real and for letting us in for just a glimpse of your life. By the way, the way you write is very “gripping” (what I mean to say is that it got you hooked by the first word). Perhaps it is time to explore writing a book? It looks as though you have many stories to tell.
Hope you and your family have a lovely holiday.
Sally xoxo
December 16th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Hey Joey,
Thank you for letting us into your life. I hope you can keep old traditions from your and Barrett’s childhood as well as create new ones for Griffin. Christmas is a special time of year. Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year!
Love and Hugs,
~Amy in AZ~
Happy Birthday Joey!
December 16th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Mr. Joe McIntyre and family,
MERRY CHRISTMAS to all three of you & to all you’ll sharing it with!!!!
This world would be a lot happier with more faith and the value of a buck!!!!! Thank you for so intently pointing it out… from both perspectives!!
It’s funny to hear you talk about such things! The honesty is intriguing!
Thanks again for sharing yourself more intimately, 4 real!! U rock! lol…
Crystal
December 16th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Oh Joe,
You crack me up, but I understand, what You are talking about. That’s why I don’t buy fresh Trees no more. I bought a nice ” Fake ” one, about 10 Years a go. It still looks nice and Green and Full.
Enjoy Your Christmas with Your Family.
Merry Christmas to You and Yours, from my Family.
Hugs & Kisses,
Angelique
Bell County, Texas
P.S. See You next Year on Tour. ;o)
December 16th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
hey, joey, it’s nice to hear from u again. Merry Christmas to u and your family too! have a safe wonderful season as well. =D
krystal
December 16th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Nice to hear from you! Unfortunately, I don’t know about shopping for a live tree (allergies, ugh), but man it can be torture trying to find a nice fake one also! I hope you and your family have a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! And someone’s (pointing to the guy with the bright blue eyes) BIRTHDAY is just around the corner! Hope it’s a GREAT one!
Much Love,
Christy
December 16th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Hey Joe I know what you mean about the whole Christmas Tree thing. When we first moved from Seattle to San Antonio we bought trees at the lot for a couplke of years and then we finally decided it was just easier and more economical to purchase a artificial tree instead. Hope and your wife enjoy your first Christmas with your son. It really does take on a whole new meaning when you see Christmas through your childs eyes. May you and your family have a Blest Christmas and A Glorious New Year.
Christmas Love, Robin from San Antonio
December 16th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Merry Christmas to you and your lovely family. Best wishes for 2009.
Much love,
Laura
December 16th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Great to hear from you Joe. We also have our tree- still in the garage but it will make it’s way into the house tonight! We went on a hunt for our tree last year way in the bush. With a 4 yr old and a 1yr old in the backpack, hubby and axe- we thought we picked the perfect tree. It looked full with all the snow on it- until we brought it home and realized that only 25% of our ornaments could o on the tree- the branches were so thin and sparse! A true charlie brown christmas tree- but the children loved it! This year I was complaining about the $35 we handed over for our tree- not anymore- $200!!! I hope it was worth it- it will be, seeing Griffin’s face when he looks at that tree!
I wish you and your family a happy holiday season- the fun is just starting with Griffin! Wait until he helps decorate the tree next year- only the bottom portion will get the ornaments!
Hope to see you all again (for the 3rd time) in the spring/summer- COME BACK TO CANADA!!!
Nina
Nelson, BC
December 16th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
What in the world?!?! A $200 Christmas Tree!!! Dude next time come down to South LA and get yourself a 6′2″ tree for only $20!!
Hope you enjoy your Christmas, and send us a picture of your tree once it’s been decorated
December 16th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
Thank you very much for the warm wishes, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!!!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Thanks for stopping by and dropping down some perspective for the holidays. Sometimes being so caught up in the commercialism of the holidays we forget that there are people out there, like the lot guys, working hard not only to help you find something perfect for your family but to have money to take back and make their own Christmas perfect. Its nice you have an affection for them and took the time to acknowledge their work. But 200 dollars? ouch! you should’ve come out to the Valley it’s a hell of a lot cheaper here lol… enjoy your break and happy holidays to your family as well.
December 16th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
Merry Christmas to you guys too Joe! You are so sweet and I just love reading your blogs…it’s as if you are right here talking to me! I love you and hope your holidays are bright! Can’t wait to see you again in the New Year! God bless you and your family!
Angie McKellar
New Brunswick, Canada!
December 16th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Thanks! And the same wishes for you and yours, Joe.
Have a SAFE and HAPPY Christmas and New Years!!
December 16th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Merry Christmas to you and your family Joey Joe! I hope Santa is good to you this year! BTW…..try investing in a fake tree….I know what you are thinking….”A fake tree?…but you only have to buy it once and you don’t have to worry about it turning brown and needles falling off! Take care sweetheart!
P.S.—My 7 year old daughter’s favorite Christmas song is Funky Funky Christmas…and when you sing the part about Santa burning his butt….she cracks up!
December 16th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Joe!
And, um, for $200 that tree better sing to you and decorate itself as well as clean up all its needles and rock your son to sleep! That’s over the cost of a 4 Star VIP to see you guys. DAMN! God Bless your wife for stringing cranberries and popcorn…I quit all that. LMAO! My son just eats the popcorn strands anyway.
Love & Blessings!
RG
December 16th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
I’m feelin’ ya Joe. Great Christmas Blog.
May you and your family and Jonathan, Jordan, Donnie and Danny have a very Merry Christmas and enjoy the New Year coming up.
Take care of yourselves.
Great big warm hugs from Australia!
Veronica xox
December 16th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
Okay this is reply #2 I never do this but I just had to say, “you’re welcome”! Why am I saying that…because I spend ummm…too much money…on concert tickets and I helped pay for your tree! Joey…I would have cut a tree down in Michigan flown it to LA FOR YOU and put it up in your house for far free (okay you could have paid for the airline ticket) HA HA HA…okay I need to stay out of the eggnog.
BTW tell Barrett that my mother saved the popcorn and cranberries that I made in 1988 (yes 1988) and JUST threw the last of them away last year.
Robin
DogWalker73
December 16th, 2008 at 4:11 pm
cheap bastard..lmao..just kidding..wow u fork over 200 bucks….wow…..my boyfriends tree cost us 25 bucks…lol….
hey i am jst hapy to have one since at my house were not having xchristmas this year…
but i think its soo sweet how you and your wifey do things..love it…..
i wish you guys the best…..and all the fans..a feliz navidad and a happy 2009..
I MUST SAY THOUGH…I BEEN HAVING A REAL BAD 2 YEARS WITH MY MANS BEST FRIEND GETTING SHOT AND KILLED, MY EX BOYFRIEND GETTING SHOT AND KILLED , MY GRANDMA FINDING OUT SHE HAD CANCER AND DYING 2 DAYS BEFORE MY BIRTHDAY AND 6 DAYS BEFORE XMAS, TO MY MOM IN AND OUT THE HOSPITAL SICK AND LOSING HER JOB ETC… YOU GUYS COMING BACK IN CONCERT MADE ALL THAT DRAMA BE PUSHED AWAY AND GAVE ME TIME TO BREATHE AND SMILE AND NOT WORRY ABOUT NOTHING BUT GWTTING MY DONNIE PIC…WHICH I DIDNT …BUT ITS OK…I CANT WAIT UNTIL SUMMER.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING MY CHRISTMAS THE BEST AND MY YEAR THE BEST…YOU GUYS COMING OUT WAS THE MOST AMAZING GIFT EVER…U JUST DONT KNOW HOW MUCH U HAVE HELPED PEOPLE….WE LOVE U GUYS…..
diana
December 16th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
merry christmas joe…..
much love, give griffin a squishy hug for me
take care and enjoy your time off.
December 16th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
We have a lot to be thankful for. No matter our situation in life, some else is in a deeper struggle somewhere. I hope the true spirit of Christmas finds its way to your hearts this season and blesses your lives in the new year. May you all be safe, healthy, and happy!
P.S. Look forward to seeing you all again on the next leg of the tour.
God Bless,
Tami
December 16th, 2008 at 4:28 pm
Awww. that was so sweet i hope all of you guys have a wonderfull christmas. Love you guys so much and that elf video was to cute. Peace, Love, and Happiness.
From: Shakira
December 16th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Joey,
Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
God Bless,
Noni
Las Vegas, NV
December 16th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
Joey! Hello there! It is great to hear from you as always. Wow, prices are really high in LA! That was sweet what you said about your dad. I wish you, Barrett, Griffin and your extended family a very merry Christmas and happy New Year. I love you.
Your friend,
Jennifer Sealey
Marion, IL
December 16th, 2008 at 4:46 pm
Joey,
Have a Merry Christmas to your family too.
Love
Amie & family
December 16th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
I am with you on that Joe!!! But fortunately, I am still in Boston and that tree lasts 3 weeks and certainly isn’t $200!! But being that I also understand the importance of a real tree for a good ol’ Boston Christmas, I probably would pay whatever I had to!
At any rate, have a wonderful Christmas and I wish you peace and happiness in the new year!
Love ya!
Christine
December 16th, 2008 at 4:54 pm
Joe, thank you so much for thinking us during your time off for Christmas. It’s heartwarming to see how humble you are and how grateful you are for everything about your childhood and life now. It’s wonderful to see that you even consider the men working the tree lot because you know first hand what they have to deal with day in and day out. We fans say thank you to you guys because you all have us fans at mind when doing these things-coming back, blogs, shows, etc. I am thankful and gratful to have met you, Barrett and Griffin in Charlotte, NC. You are all so great. Barrett was so kind and understanding, she is just a lover of us fans. I don’t know why she loves us crazy middle aged women chasing grown men around the country, but she does. I understand Barrett’s grief with the popcorn and cranberries. I hate putting up decorations, but I love sitting in my living room looking at them afterward. I’m thankful that through FAITH NKOTB made the comeback, and FAITH saw you all through.
December 16th, 2008 at 5:09 pm
hi joe, merry christmas to you and yr family i hope you see all yr dreams come true x
xxxx see you then
and as for the xmas tree thing, why not do what i do….cheat, i get a fake tree my last one i had for 8 years never dropped needles everywhere looked green and amazing all christmas long, in fact when i was growing up we always had real trees and i always swore id never have a fake tree but OMG there are some really good ones now days, and you save a packet, the one i got this year was £200. but it will last for about another 6 years so its so worth it
anyways all the best, soooo looking forward to jan 24th
sally xxx
December 16th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Thank you for keeping us all updated. I am sure many of us feel the same way. (http://www.myspace.com/jodibuggy I just wrote my own blog last night on my myspace about Christmas if anyone cares to look, would love to see some comments!) I hate to tell you Joe but even here in New England, NH to be exact, the prices are going up and up and the trees are just as brown even before you get them home!! The recent ice storms have not helped either! we are going to be without electricity possibly til after Christmas! But it is the spirit of the holiday season that is helping us all get through. We may not be able to cook a great meal on a hot-plate but we will all be together! So, Happy Christmas to everyone and a wonderful holiday season! Love from the northeast! xoxox Jo in NH
December 16th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
all i did was awe at that:)
love you joey joe
December 16th, 2008 at 5:28 pm
Hey Joe! thank you so much for the heartwarming story-it brought a lump to my throat…we always think about how our parents did things for us-especially if we saw how hard they really had to work just to make it! thanks for the reminders and please enjoy your holiday with your family! take care and once again, thanks for making it a great year for me!
lots of love to you and your family!!
xoxoxo
Zena
December 16th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
Thanks Joey. I hope you, Barrett and Griffin have a wonderful day.
And dont be forgetting to turn the fireplace down so Santa won’t get burnt!
Have a brillaint birthday too, and see you in the new year!!
God bless,
Helen xxx
(UK Mullet/Airport girl)
December 16th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to the McIntyres!
Don’t worry Joe my tree is green, my ass is warm, and my FAITH is strong =)
December 16th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Merry Christmas Joey!! I love real trees, so way to go. I call it responsible tree harvesting! Where do the artificial trees go when people get tired of them? Hope you and your family have a great 2009.
-Shelly
December 16th, 2008 at 5:47 pm
Hey Joey,
The price of a Christmas tree is a little insane. I love them though, so I continue to fork out the money year after year. I usually leave it up, as long as possible, though. Yes, I am notorious for leaving a tree up until the end of January. I never knew that your dad sold Christmas trees back in the day. I thank you so much for sharing that story. It is amazing what a little faith can do. Your story sends an important message for this time of year. Anyway, let Barrett know that we are cheering her on with the stringing of the popcorn and cranberries. I know that it will look beautiful. May you all have a very Merry Christmas. God Bless!
Love always,
Erin L.
December 16th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
Joey, thanks for sharing something personal about your Father, this reminds me of my Grandfather, he didn’t sale trees, but he was a laborer, a migrant worker and he also worked very hard. He also did what he had to to take care of his family, he didn’t have 9 kids, he had 2 and his parents to help out with. He was later drafted in World War II, he was part of the “Greatest Generation” and received a Purple Heart, which I now have. He went on to become a welder for a trailer company. My Grandfather was 80 years old when he passed, that was 11 years ago this November, I miss him so much especially now around the holidays. I hope you, your family, and the rest of the guys and their families have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!
LONG LIVE THE BLOCK!
Loving NKOTB 4EVA,
Lupe(Jongirl since day one)
in Fort Worth, Texas
December 16th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
Awesome blog as always, Joe Mac. Joyeuses fêtes!
Maria,
Montreal
December 16th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Feel better Joe? =)
Happy Holidays
December 16th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
Very Merry Christmass to you and your family Joe. We have faith that you will be as good of a husband and father just like your own Dad.
December 16th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
great to hear your woes of the season with Christmas trees lol. I went the cheap n lazy route I guess. I bought a fake tree with lights already on it at Wal-Mart. But I’m glad you got your money but still remember the little man as in your own father. Though way you typed this so reminds me of my cousin’s hubby as he is from Boston the way you all talk I guess but what do I know I’m a midwest gal but boy do I love my east coast boys. Have a great Holiday season and I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas and God Bless!
Rachael
December 16th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
Joey…
Thank you for the blog…
A Wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!!!!
Much Love,
Fernanda - São Paulo
*** BRAZIL IS READY !!! ***
December 16th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
Thanks Joe for another great blog. Hopefully you’ll post pics of your decorated Christmas tree.
Hope your family has a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year!!
December 16th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
Two hundred dollars!! All I have to say is that tree better be made of gold or something!!
Merry Christmas to you and your family!!! Good luck with that tree!!!
<3 ShortyWasHere
December 16th, 2008 at 6:19 pm
I am sitting here looking at my artificial tree wishing that I had enough patience for a real tree. I remember one of the years that my dad brought home a real tree. It was beautiful, and the smell, well there isn’t anything like it. The tree wasn’t cut but balled, so my dad planted it in our front yard after Christmas, within a couple of weeks or maybe a month or two, the tree started dying. Apparently my dad forgot to cut the plastic or something from around the ball. The roots couldn’t cut through it. Oh well, it was a nice thought.
Your story brought back a memory of my own, so thanks for that. Have a great Christmas, Birthday, and New Year. Enjoy your family and your much needed time off.
December 16th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Joe,
I’m so happy to hear from you. I hope you are enjoying your break! I can’t blame you for being upset over the price of a tree, not when it’s $200! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas! Can’t wait to see you in ‘09!
Love ya!!
Myndy
December 16th, 2008 at 6:33 pm
Wishing you and your Family a wonderful and Blessed holiday season! Joe, you come look me up in Fountain Hill, PA and I’ll give you a Christmas Tree next year or if your tree is already withering, look me up this year! I help out with the Christmas Tree Sales for our Fire Department. Your dad is right that “Faith” can go a long way! I’ll be keeping the faith your Christmas Tree lasts for you this Year. Have a Happy Birthday as well.
Love Always
Tiffany
December 16th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
Just a suggestion,not that you’ll read this on time…or ever,but I’ll leave a comment anyway. Fake tree…….. that smells of pine : ) Merry Christmas to you and yours. Oh, and I hope ur ass is warm to.
December 16th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
Thank you for sharing this with us! Have a funky christmas and a funky new year
December 16th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Merry Christmas to you and your family. $200! Wow, I got an 8 foot tree for $24 at Green Thumb, and yes, you have them in LA too. We’re heading out to look at the Christmas lights and tonight we’re making cookies.
Peace
December 16th, 2008 at 6:51 pm
Thank you. I wish you the same, JM…
December 16th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
$200 for a Christmas tree? Holy Toledo, Batman. That’s nuts. I’
Hope you have a
December 16th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
Grrrr!!! Connection issues suck. My last post got cut off.
Anyhoo….as I was saying. I’ll stick with my midwest central Minnesota tree prices. And we just got a foot of fresh powder this week - most excellent for snowmobiling! I don’t think…no, I know I couldn’t do LA for Christmas. No snow!
I wish you and your family the a wonderful and joyous holiday season!
**HUGS FROM MINNESOTA**
E~
December 16th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
LOL, Joey you can always make me laugh! Yes, my ass will be warm. I wish you and all the families the Merriest Christmas ever.
Take care, God Bless!
ps. I just hope that I don’t burn Santa’s butt!
December 16th, 2008 at 7:05 pm
Joe,
what an insightful and perceptive anecdote. Thank you so much for sharing this. It means a lot to come home from a hard day of work to read something like this.
Coming from a modest middle class background myself, I totally get what you mean - for my family, life was “make what you can by whatever means” and like your upbringing, faith is always what carried us through.
Merry Christmas to you and yours. A safe a blessed new year too.
December 16th, 2008 at 7:07 pm
Holy crap!! That’s a lot of money for a christmas tree!! Enjoy the holidays!!
Happy early 36th Birthday!!
DANA
December 16th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
Joe, YES…you blogged, I always look forward to your blogs..ALWAYS! After living in Chicago ALL my life, I don’t know if I could get use to a “green” Christmas, I mean stringing lights on palm trees in the 70 degree weather, not my idea of Christmas, KWIM??? LOL I am writing this as we are getting PUMMELED by a snow storm, and let me tell you it is SO gorgeous out there, everything covered in a blanket of white. As for a tree, I just got a 10 foot fake at Menard’s for $200.00, a steal in my eyes.
I hope you and your family have a Very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year, and may YOUR ass stay warm..probably pretty easy in California!! 
Keep the FAITH!
xoxo
Tina
December 16th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
Thanks Joey for the blog ….I’m sure your tree will be beautiful!!! I wish you and your family have a wonderful Christmas!!
Hope to see you in 2009 in VANCOUVER!!
Love ya,
Helena
December 16th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Wow that is a lot of money for a tree that will be dead in 2 weeks! I will admit though, that it is hard work lugging those trees around! I have done it, only mine was unloading those damn live trees off a truck at Walmart, yes, they make the girls do the dirty work! They are pretty heavy, but I think the worst part of it is all that damn tree sap! Gets all over you and your clothes! ugh! I totally respect your dad for doing that, and in the new england cold weather too! He sounds like a strong, hardworking, loving man, to do that for his 9 kids.
Well, I want to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas! Tell Barrett, that even though it sucks to string the popcorn, have faith, because its well worth it for the look! 
December 16th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Joe,
As always, I love your writing! Thank you for that little note. I hope your tree stays green through the holidays! Merry Christmas to you and your family, and Happy 2009!
Happy Hanukkah
Kelly
December 16th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Yule tide greetings to you
I would also say may your ass be warm as well but out in LA I don’t think that’s a problem…or have you gone soft and think that 60 degrees is cold now?
December 16th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
Hey Joe!
Wishing you and your family Merry Xmas and Happy new year!!!
Talking of Xmas trees..I bought mine at Wal-mart ($ 25) hahaha…well, my apartment is not that big…not yet! hee hee
Much love and peace!!
God bless all1!!
Grace Gallino (argentinian blockhead in NJ)
December 16th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Thanks for the blog Joe, NKOTB and my NKOTB girls always seem to be able to bring me a smile when I’m down so this was perfect timing. Hope you’re enjoying your much deserved break, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. See ya in 2009
December 16th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
Hey Joe, Just have to say I don’t think you are a cheap bastard for paying $200 for a tree that won’t look good in a week from now. That’s just crazy. I think that’s a little much for a tree. You should’ve come to St.Louis, you could’ve found one for I don’t know maybe $70 and it would look good for like a month.
These are the kinds of stories we love hearing from you guys in your off time. The everyday things that go on in your lives. So keep the stories coming. We love them. Have fun decorating your $200 tree…lol Have a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a Happy Birthday. Love always, Tracy
December 16th, 2008 at 7:46 pm
I identify with this post a lot because when you buy these things, you always hope that it can be cheaper, but when you hear the stories behind the workers. How much they actually earn and how much labor they put in, it just breaks your heart.
BUT,$200 does sounds like a lot of money . . . Hahaha
December 16th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
Oh — and thank you Joe for taking time out to write a blog to all of us during the busy holiday season!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Joe… this year with Griffin being a year old is when the REAL fun begins! How much of the ornaments are left that are at his level will be the REAL issue in a couple weeks… not weather or not the tree is all brown and dead by then! Children always find a way to put a smile on our faces.
I want to take this opportunity to announce that my sister had a baby boy just this morning! Lil Patrick already has the most gifts under my parents’ Christmas tree! I am glad I live in such a small apartment with no roommates that it’s pointless to decorate as I am always with my family anyway (let them deal with the hassle of walking for hours at a tree farm and end up cutting down the first tree they saw that happens to be right next to where they parked their truck!) lol
I also want to wish your wife’s family a Happy Hanukkah as well as an early Happy Birthday to you.
Happy Holidays,
April
December 16th, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Joe
Thank you so much! I can not believe you guys are blogging on your first official time off in almost 2 years. Thank you for your very cute thoughts. I hope you, Barrett and Griffin have a magical and terrific Holiday Season.
You and your four band mates are amazing people who deserve every bit of happiness and joy you get in life and business. We miss you in the Hub because there really is no better place to celebrate this time of year.
Love, hugs, kisses and joy,
BeanTownGal
December 16th, 2008 at 7:52 pm
thanks for sharing this, joey! you always have so much appreciation for the simple things, and i really admire you for that! happy holidays and warm wishes for your birthday! *big hugs* to you and your family!
love,
cherrie from long beach, ca
December 16th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
You could always come up here to Canada…where the tree’s are fresh and the air is crisp and it’s definately time for HOT chocolate!!!!
xoxoxo
Michelle
December 16th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
here’s a little something to cheer you up as you decorate your tree…
A Christmas Story for people having a bad day…..
When four of Santa’s elves got sick, the trainee elves
did not produce toys as fast as the regular ones, and
Santa began to feel the Pre-Christmas pressure.
Then, Mrs. Claus told Santa her Mother was coming to visit,
which stressed Santa even more.
When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that
three of them were about to give birth and two others had
jumped the fence.
Then, when he began to load the sleigh, one of
the floorboards cracked, the toy bag fell to the ground
and all the toys were scattered.
Frustrated, Santa went in the house for a cup of apple cider
and a shot of rum. When he went to the cupboard,
he discovered the elves had drank all the cider and
hidden the liquor. In his frustration, he accidentally
dropped the cider jug, and it broke into hundreds of little glass
pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and
found the mice had eaten all the straw off the end of the broom.
Just then the doorbell rang, and irritated, Santa marched to
the door, yanked it open, and there stood a little angel with a big
Christmas tree.
The little angel said very cheerfully, ‘Merry Christmas, Santa. Isn’t
this a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you.
Where would you like me to stick it?’
And so began the tradition of the little angel on top of the
Christmas tree.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
MERRY CHRISTMAS JOE!!!!!!!!
Wishing you and your family a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season!!!!!!
Good luck with your tree . . . hope it doesn’t turn brown until after Christmas!!!!! ; )
Much love,
Theresa
December 16th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
Well I know how you feel Joe my husband likes artificial trees I went to five stores and found one paid 62 dollars and just found out today I could have gotten a white christmas tree for 35 dollars so I been there done that.
Have a happy and safe Holidays to u all
December 16th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
JMac,
I love your honesty.
Thank you and Merry Christmas from my family to yours.
See ya next year. I promise and yes i want another hug because 3 was not enough. LOL
Hugs,
Yoli
December 16th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
hey, Joe
Go Buy a fake tree. they look just as real, but without all the hasel and the mess. We have one, but of course I have alergies and can’t have a real one. Have a great Christmas with your family.
Becky
December 16th, 2008 at 8:31 pm
Aww Joe, may you and your family have a very merry Christmas. It’s your first with your baby, so I’m sure your wife and you will always remember this one.
XX Connie
Los Angeles
P.S. Just close the heater vents from the top of the tree and put some water on it
December 16th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Much love to you and your family this Christmas! And hope you have a wonderful birthday after that! You and the guys gave many girls across the world our Christmas wishes this year. Seeing you again was even more exciting than opening that Cabbage Patch Kid 20 years ago. Only thing that woulda made it better was meeting you…maybe next year! Enjoy the time off. Your tree may be brown, but your ass is warmer than we are in the midwest! xoxox
December 16th, 2008 at 8:39 pm
I Love You Joe! You Crack Me Up And Warm My Heart All At The Same Time:) I Pray That You And Your Fam Will Have A Wonderful Christmas And An Amazing New Year. Kiss That Sweet Baby For Us And Tell Barrett That We Love Her:) Love Hugs And Kisses To You And YOur Fam:)
December 16th, 2008 at 8:47 pm
Really??? $200 for a tree??? What?? Thats insane!! Geeez Joe, next year I will ship you one from Canada…lol $29.99 for a perfectly green HUGE tree…lol Have a good Christmas in sunny Cali…wish I was there its frickin FREEZING and snowing (yuck) here in Toronto.
December 16th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Hey Joey,
Getting a Christmas tree will one day be a great memorie to look back on…Paying $200 is outragous. Trees are about 40-50 here for a huge one. I know exactly what you mean about the jokes and trying to lay a hint about lowering prices..I do that too. Tried it on black friday…didn’t work and the thing I got will probally break after the first week of playing with it. Hey black friday your supposed to get a big deal…I saved 10%..any how..have a wonderful Christmas and I wish you family well. Griffin won’t do much this year but it gets better next year. You’ll probally open most of the presents which is fun…Thanks for thinking of us we love hearing from you…Remember the reason for the season and be thankful…love Lori Davis
December 16th, 2008 at 8:55 pm
Merry Christmas, Joe! I hope you and your family have a wonderful and safe holiday. Thanks for giving me something to be merry about this year.
Love ya,
Carla
December 16th, 2008 at 9:03 pm
May your tree be green,your balls be blue and your buds be weiser. Happy Holidays!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
forgot to add..
Thanks for taking the time (on your WELL deserved vacation) to check in with us, it means a lot to ALL of us..more than you will ever know. Enjoy your holiday with Barrett and Griffin, just wait until he starts to get this whole Santa thing, then…the fun begins…until then..SPOIL HIM ROTTEN, well, you can always spoil him rotten, that’s what kids are for!!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS MAC’S!!
xoxo
Tina
December 16th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
MERRY CHRISTMAS JOEY TO YOU AND YOUR WHOLE FAMILY……CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU GUYS AGAIN IN 2009
December 16th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
Wishing you and your family a Christmas filled with joy and love. What fun Griffin’s first holiday season will be. Thanks for sending us good cheer…enjoy your break and hope to hear from you soon.
Merry Christmas and Happy 2009!
God Bless!
katie
st. louis
December 16th, 2008 at 9:26 pm
JOE.thank you for taking time to share christmas with us too…..wait til you have a few more kids!!!!!!then watch them knock down the tree….thats what mines do!!!!!glad you guys are safe. happy. and together. happy hoildays
December 16th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
Hay Joe Bird its me Page just wanted to wish you a very Merry Christmas. I look at you know and its hard to believe we where running around together you probably don’t remember me and that’s ok its been a hundred years but I hope we reunite one day.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Joey mi amor!!
Thank you for blogging during your break, wishing us a merry x-mas and for always keeping it real…Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you, your family, the guys and their families also!
Los quiero mucho!!
Natali
December 16th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Get a fake tree they last forever…come to philly for a tree you can get one for 20.00 and last until new years lol…have a very merry christmas and a happy new years..hope your trees stays alive until at least the 26th..hugs crystal
December 16th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
forgot to say happy birthday. i wanted to also let you know that God used your song “stay the same” to stop me from suicide today. Life sometimes seems so unbearable when the state takes your kids away. Thanks again Joe that is if you read this.
karen koons mrskoons@gmail.com
December 16th, 2008 at 9:38 pm
Our tree is green but its artificial, my ass is just getting warm (we were doing our driveway, and two neighbors (an elder lady and a younger woman who’s working to make ends meet while her boyfriend is serving our country), and the faith is stong
“If god brings you to it, he’ll bring you through it” -unknown
As for the cold….I’ll TRADE LA cold for Chicago cold any day. We were drastically teased the other day. Sunday 8pm(20:00) 50F, Mon 7am(07:00) 4F with winds making it oh -19F.
I hope you and yours have a wonderful holiday. Relax and enjoy the break.
Love and hugs
Jen
December 16th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
That’s one of the reasons I stick with the fake tree…lol…lugging in it in the house, paying a high price for it…I prefer to stick with my fake tree from Wal-Mart, and it’s already pre-lit too…lol…I hope that your tree stays beautiful for you and your family until the 26th…give Griffy hugs and kisses from all of us fans…
Love
Lorri
P.S. if you have a fireplace remember to turn it down so Santa don’t burn his butt…lol…have a Funky Funky Christmas…
P.S.S. to the rest of the guys…I’ll Be Missing You Come Christmas…love you all…esp. Jon and Joe
December 16th, 2008 at 9:47 pm
My tree is green.
My ass is warm.
My faith be strong.
FELIZ NAVIDAD Y FELIZ AÑO NUEVO!!!!
and HAPPY B-DAY EARLY JOE!!!!
eNjoy your break and my wish is nk back to México in 2009!!!.
Best Wishes Always!!!
Katia
-
December 16th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
That was a beautiful, well thought out blog. Very heartfelt and lovely. Merry Christmas to you and yours as well.
December 16th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
Hi Joe,
Thanks for posting.
Happy Holidays to you and your family as well.
My tree is green (fake though lol)
My ass is well as warm as it can be in Winnipeg (aka Winterpeg) Manitoba, Canada
My faith is strong…
I know it is early, but Happy Birthday. Have a great rest..you deserve it.
xoxox
Cari
December 16th, 2008 at 9:56 pm
Happy holidays to you and yours!
December 16th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Joe,
I love your sense of humor! Thank you for sharing your experience with us, I can’t believe you paid almost $200.00 for a christmas tree. That’s insane!
I hope you & your family have a wonderful Christmas & Happy New Year!
Hope to see you in 2009.
Stephanie
December 16th, 2008 at 10:22 pm
JOE,
IT’S ALWAYS GOOD TO READ THINGS FROM YOU. YOUR HONESTY ALWAYS MAKES ME SMILE AND CAN BRING TEARS TO MY EYES EVERYTIME.
THANK YOU FOR SENDING US LOVE FROM YOUR FAMILY AND THINKING ABOUT US DURING YOUR BREAK!!
HAVING A BABY AND NEW KIDS REUNITING GO HAND IN HAND! THANK YOU FOR MAKING 2008 A YEAR TO REMEMBER AND CHERISH! I HOPE WE SEE YOU GUYS AGIAN!!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! AND PLEASE THANK YOUR WIFE FOR SHARING YOUR WITH US ALL…. IT REALLY HAS BEEN AN AWESOME RIDE AND I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT NEXT!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 10:29 pm
Hi Joe,
Happy Holidays to you and your beautiful family. Wow $200.00 for a real tree, that’s a lot of money for something that’s going to die in a few days. I hope that your last until after. You can get a beautiful artificial tree for that price and cheaper and it will always be green and never make a mess :). I always had an artificial tree and I brought a new pre-lit one last year. Take care, keep warm and keep the faith :). Happy Birthday when the day comes. Hopefully I will be seeing you in ‘09!
xoxo, Clarita
December 16th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
Hey Joey, you said them christmas greetings the best buddie! I loved your raw, organic outlook on christmas! You kept it very REAL! Which most people don’t do these days! I loved every word of it! It is SO true! And just how hard it is for all of us to get through…no matter where we live or what walks of life we come from!
This was off the hook fun to read Joey! You never disappoint! Merry Christmas to you & your family Joe! God bless and enjoy your little one this year, they are the best at the holidays! I love viewing it through my niece’s eyes too!
See U on the road next time around!!!
Keep it real baby & keep stayin the same!
Lisa Marie, Brentwood, California
December 16th, 2008 at 10:38 pm
You are so funny Joey. I love the fact that you can still look at things from a regular person’s point of view not like the big LA big hot shots.
I remember when I was 10 when the “Merry, Merry Christmas” album came out. I would make my parents play it the whole season over and over.
Christmas always reminds me of you because I read all those books like crazy when I was a kid and they all had your experiences with the big family on Christmas and how it was your favorite holiday.
Then that week i would prepare my package with cards and stuff to send to you for the following week for your birthday every year. I guess those memories always stay with you somewhere inside. You forget about them here and there as you get older but I guess they are always there. Ofcourse those memories are well and alive in every Fans heart this year.
Merry Christmas to you and your family and a early HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Ifra
December 16th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
Hi Joe thanks for thinking of us & feeding our addiction.
Thank-you for the reminder of what the season is really about & faith is a huge part.
All the best to you & your family. Have a wonderful holiday & be safe!
P.s. if this doesn’t look right the screen was half cut off while I was typing….
See You in 2009!!!
Canada misses YOU
December 16th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
hey joey,
i enjoyed reading your blog - thanks for sharing some of your family stories present and past.
Wishing you and your lovely family a very Merry Christmas!
christineb
falls church, va/dc
December 16th, 2008 at 11:04 pm
joey - i have two words for you…”fake tree”…I know, I know…how Non-New England of me…given I AM from New England (NH), I feel I am free to say that.
I love your Dad…he’s a good man.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday season!!!
December 16th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Daaaang! $200!
Well, I just flew *away* from L.A. and to my home-state of Virginia and am freezing my ass off, waiting for my parents to come home from Canada…and am simply enjoying our beautiful artificial tree.
My mom (who’s also lived in Boston, where she met my dad :-P) also always hated having brown Christmas trees!
Merry Christmas to you and yours, a very Happy Birthday and New Year!
Much love,
Charlene McD.
Studio City, CA
December 17th, 2008 at 12:20 am
Hehe.. It does sound crazy paying $200 for a tree, but on the other hand.. we pay $350 just to get a hug from you guys..
Totally worth it though!
Merry Christmas from Aweden!
December 17th, 2008 at 12:46 am
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours Joe. I am so happy that you guys are back in the states home with your families. How do you like all the Christmas shopping? Long lines, no parking, not finding what you’re looking for, etc., etc. That’s my pet peeve during the holidays. Have you ever heard the “Twelve Pains of Christmas”? Look it up on You Tube or IPOD music downloads, it’s soooooo funny. Anyway, sending you lots of Love and hugs to you and your beautiful little family.
Love ya,
Cynthia P.
December 17th, 2008 at 12:56 am
Hello from Australia,
Joey, we don’t have that problem here our trees are plastic hahahahaha… way too hot in Queensland to have live trees. Merry Christmas and safe and happy New Year.
When are you guys coming down to Australia, Brisbane ?
Wishing you all well - “O” (Ourania)
December 17th, 2008 at 1:31 am
Hi Joe Mac,
Two hundred dollars Christmas tree! Woah that’s real cheap. It is very freezing and snowy outside in Detroit. I’m doing well but you’re still funny. Thank you for sharing about the past and present with your family. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (your early birthday) to you and your family.
~Sasha~
December 17th, 2008 at 1:34 am
Joe, thanks for taking time to blog to us. Glad to know you are so down to earth… you are a great role model for Griffin! I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season =)
Akiko
December 17th, 2008 at 1:42 am
Hey Joe,
Just so you know; Ikea: tree lot, up to 7′, $20, if you get it early.
Plus, Walmart will match price, if you bring in competative ad.
Joe, thank you for saying, “I want that winner to meet us”; you were doing a radio show interview in San Diego and I was the winner.
I actually didn’t get to say, “Thank you” to you, but Donnie was all smiles when he met me.
You made my dreams come true, and I think you are a great person.
You can always find me at: jennytheclown@aol.com
jennytheclown
December 17th, 2008 at 1:45 am
Thanks for updating us so that we get to hear about things like you trying to bargain for the price of a Christmas tree (lol), about your wife hating having to string the popcorn up, or about your wonderful dad who was the man that took care of his family and did it with love, hard work, and faith.
We’re always MUCH more blessed than we sometimes think.
Get lots of rest, spend LOTS of time with Barrett and Griffin, eat lots of yummy food, open presents… al of that! We love you, and we can’t wait to see a well-rested Joey back on tour with a well-rested Jordan, Jon, Donnie, and Danny in 2009!
Have a blessed and VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
*Hugs*
Lili
December 17th, 2008 at 2:35 am
Thank’s for the laugh of the day, hope you got a wonderful tree otherwise Joe, you can buy one in plastic, they always stay green. Myself I’ve always had a plastic cus my mom is allergic… Hope you’ll have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year, and see you in Paris 4th of Feb.
December 17th, 2008 at 2:39 am
Joe, bless you! Loved reading that & laughing at you refusing to pay delivery for the tree!!
Merry Christmas to you all & I hope Griffin has an amazing time, there’s something extra special about christmas day when you have kids! Think I get more excited than my daughter sometimes!!
Take Care!
xx xx
December 17th, 2008 at 2:44 am
HMMMMMMM……whats the chances you’ll read response #326….well anyway i just wanted you to know that you have painted an inspiring portrait of christmas spirit…………we just did our tree tonight, and its snowing back here in Ma!!…….Here is wishing you and yours a merry christmas and a Happy new year! and a happy (early) birthday to you! Enjoy! love kami
December 17th, 2008 at 3:28 am
What a beautiful time of the year!! I hope you all have a safe and wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year ahead! xxx
December 17th, 2008 at 3:50 am
Wow!! thats a lot for a tree….I hope you have a great holiday and that you take lots of pictures and video’s of your son…..I hope you enjoy your time off and everyone travels safely.. I hope everyone gets what they want….(would love you guys to come back to KC)and have a Merry Christmas!!
December 17th, 2008 at 3:58 am
Hi Joe & the other New Kids,
Merry Xmas & all that jazz. Have fun I’m know counting the days you come to the U.K now. I going to see you at the Hammersmith which is the best venue to play in nice & small. I hope you run up the back say howdy to the lot sitting up there. Happy New Year to you all & Your families.
Love yours
Teresa ox ox oxs
December 17th, 2008 at 4:10 am
JM to you and you family enjoy the holidays and best wishes to you and yours keep adding water to the tree and an asprin it will keep it well
Hugs
Gia
December 17th, 2008 at 4:18 am
Faith is a wonderful thing Joe, your dad is a wise man.
May your family be blessed during this Christmas season.
Lets not forget the reason for the season ~ the birth of our Lord and Savior.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you ~
December 17th, 2008 at 5:01 am
Wow, 200 bucks for a tree?? I get my trees for free
But in spite of the broken backs and empty wallets, this time of year is the greatest time of the year, isn’t it? I always get a warm feeling inside, when I see al the lights and stuff, anyway. It’s so welcoming.
I can imagine that it is even better, now that you have Griffin.
Have a good Christmas and an even better new year, and thank you for thinking of us
December 17th, 2008 at 6:25 am
Hi,joey. Thank you so much for telling us funny story about you. But you did a great job for your son!!
I didn’t understand why the tree Couldn’t keep in good condition. Now I understand the reason. Because you live in LA. Now It is hot there,isn’t it?! Why don’t you move to
Boston during X’mas holiday if you wanna set the real tree in the living room?I think Boston is a beautiful place to spend X’mas holidays,must be snowing….Oh, snowing on X’mas time in Boston,I have a funny story. I was in boston ‘97,I lived in hemenway st very near norhteastern UNV,All students of Northeastern they went back home for spending holidays.also my ex-boyfriend went back to his country. The day on X’mas It was so much snowing around there. so I couldn’t move out from my room. I felt very lonely. so I called my friend who lived in summerville to hang out. At the night there was no car , no bus.the street was just filled with snow.but she took T from summerville for me, she walked down Huntington Ave from copley.And We went to sports bar in the prudential.we had a funny & great time together.After that we walked down Huntington Ave to my apartment.It was so hard to walk outside because of snow.(there was no people, no car, no bus..nothing on the street but only just me & my friend) she stayed over night.No more lonely X’mas because of my friend.I have so much appreciation of her kindness even now.That is my X’mas story though.
Oh, I have to get back your situation.why don’t you buy a fake tree next year? In japan, we buy a fake tree. & keep it for long years.Usually Most of family buy 2-3 feet tree, but My husband bought 6.5feet tree for 150 bucks.Now It will be 9 years since we’ve got. I set it up in the kids room( very tiny room),because I have no space to set it in the living room. Someday I want to have new house like I can set the tree in the living.
Anyway your father was doing great! It was interesting that your father was sleeping in the tub.
Have a wonderful X’mas, happy new year! and Happy birthday!!
always love,
sachy
December 17th, 2008 at 6:30 am
Hey Joe,
Ya know Joe..every time I read ya blogs I seriously forget your a famous person and get involved in what ya have to say. I hear wat ya saying about the price of the trees…as much as we… in Australia would love to have a live tree…having the fake ones can last years, better value…we just upgraded to a 198cm fuller tree…we love it….
My hubby and I are getting ready to watch the amazing expressions on our youngest face (he turns 3 in January)when we excite him on the whole Santa-Christmas time…with pressies, stockings, lights and candy canes…Our 2 eldest kids are so great in helping keep Christmas-Santa alive…Just LOVE the Christmas feeling…:o)When I was young, at Christmas time it’s known to be very hot and raining with storms…My Mum used to say that the Thunder was Santa making the Toys…he has to make soooooo many that the noise echoes all over..I too tell my kids the same, as it then doesn’t make them scared of the Thunder…
Is Griffin getting his photo with Santa? My youngest not too keen, he will shake his hand and give him high fives…but he says “No photo with Santa, Mum” hehehe..so I won’t push him..
Well, thanx for letting me rattle on…
And from My Family to Yours too…
Have a Safe, Healthy and Happy Christmas and New Year
Oh and Happy B’day for the 31st
Lv&Luck Always
Donna from Australia xo
December 17th, 2008 at 6:40 am
HEY JOEY~~ HOPE YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HAVE A SAFE AND WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEARS!!! ENJOY YOUR BREAK FROM SHOW BIZ!!! CAN’T WAIT FOR YOU TO COME BACK TO THE STATES FOR ANOTHER ROUND OF MUSIC!!!
MY FAMILY BOUGHT OUR TREE THE WEEKEND AFTER THANKSGIVING (PAID 60 BUX) THATS IN RI.. I THINK THAT IS ALOT FOR A TREE THAT WILL DIE! LOL
ENJOY AND TAKE CARE!!
LOVE YOU TONS!!
LISA S FROM RI
December 17th, 2008 at 6:45 am
$200 for a tree? Maybe you should move to a crappier neighborhood. I couldn’t help but think of the Macs this week I’ve been visiting Ireland…’Irish Power’ jackets and the lyrics to Hangin Tough are taking up space in my brain where Algebra should have been. But honestly I’ve never used Algebra since then so it’s probably not that big a loss! From Memphis to Belfast and back to Hollywood…Happy Christmas! Seriously, dude, drive down out of the hills and get a cheaper tree. And then tip the tree guy well!!
December 17th, 2008 at 7:32 am
Thanks Joe, all the best to you and your family as well. Keep Your faith strong.
Love from Barbados.
December 17th, 2008 at 7:50 am
Joe, I hope you and your family have a VERY MERRY Christmas. Enjoy the holidays and God Bless!!
Stephanie
December 17th, 2008 at 8:38 am
$200 BUCKS?!!!! Wow Joe you are dedicated!! We paid a tenth of that for our tree (granted we got a deal cause its so close to Christmas) but I can’t even imagine paying so much for a real tree. Ok, yeah I would pay that over buying an artificial one! Thanks for writing another lovely blog for us fans who are already missing you guys. May you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!!
Luv ya,
Laura (in Indiana)
December 17th, 2008 at 8:47 am
Joe… You are truely ONE OF A KIND!!! I love it though!! I am so bummed I don’t live in LA anymore!!! I love GA, but CALI is wonderful place. I loved the 2 almost 3 years I was there!! The price of trees has gone up A LOT though!!! LOL!!! Anyway… Have a MERRY, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! OH… I GOTTA HAVE MY ORIGINAL!!! I so hope you remember those words from the meet and greet in ATL!! It was me that said that to you!!! Much Love and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
December 17th, 2008 at 8:52 am
That’s a sweet story about your dad, Joe. I’d lead with that when you’re bargaining with the tree lot guys. Make friends with them, let them know you appreciate how hard they work. Thanks for sharing, though. That’s inspiring
But I do have to ask — $200???? And some of you say that’s cheap? OK, either the rest of the country is gouging people on trees or you guys are buying like, 40 foot trees.
I bought my tree from a lot run by the band members at the high school down the street from my apartment and I spent $25. Granted, I bought a tiny little tree (about 5 feet tall) because I’m small and needed to be able to get it in and out of my apartment by myself, but even the biggest, most expensive tree they had was only about $70. Wow. I’ve lived in the Pacific Northwest my entire life and my parents never paid more than $50 or $60 for a tree (OK, usually we went to cut our own, but even at lots, they’re like $60).
December 17th, 2008 at 9:38 am
hi joe- happy holidays! thanks for the story. it gives you another perspective on life.
-caroline
December 17th, 2008 at 9:44 am
Hi Joey,
So nice to hear from you….
I just wanna said I understand what you feeling…
I too, often found my self torn between fully understanding and pissed off at the same time…LOL..
But I think that’s what made us wiser, to understand what we had feel and see them in different ways…that’s a great experience….
Bla…bla..bla…LOL..
Anyway, our christmas tree here in Indonesia is plastic…so we dont have to buy one every year, we just rebuild and redecorated the tree LOL….
Sending a warm, kind and humble Merry Christmas from me to your family,
XOXO,
F e r a - Indonesia
December 17th, 2008 at 10:23 am
Merry Christmas Joe!
I agree with you that’s a lot to pay for a tree. I never bother with them. I just put all my money into presents and stack them up and look at that instead, and use the time I save decorating to bake more cookies. I cannot figure out how the heck my mom managed to get it all done when I was a kid. I probably won’t be able to get away with being this lazy if I ever have kids someday.
December 17th, 2008 at 10:27 am
Hey Joe,
not sure if anyone else has mentioned this as I haven’t the time to read through all the posts right now but here’s a suggestion: get a fake tree!!! Saves on all the cleaning up afterwards, comes straight out the box good as new (and very green) and lasts for years!!!
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year - and hope you have a fab birthday.
See ya in London in January, can’t wait for my M&G!!!
Mandsxx
December 17th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Very well said Joe!!! I can’t believe you pay almost $200 for a damn tree that’s going to die or be gone in a month!!! I guess if its a really good tree then sure why not!! LOL!! Have a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!! Hope you enjoy it with your family!! There’s nothing like being with your family on the holidays!!
MUCH LOVE AND RESPECT AS ALWAYS,
ELIZABETH BURNS
December 17th, 2008 at 10:36 am
$200 bucks for a tree!! It’s either a huge tree or they screwed you, IMO. I’m with you. You should have come back to New England, then again, you’d have to deal with the snow falling. It does look lovely out there right now but since no plows have gone through the streets, it was a pain in my *ss to get up my street (actually I couldn’t, I had to go up another street and backtrack..I hate backtracking)!!
All these people saying to buy a fake one. We had a fake one for one year but threw it away at the end of one season. It’s just not the same without a real one!!
December 17th, 2008 at 10:37 am
Hola Joey,
Thank you so much for sharing family stories with us. it really got me what you wrote about your dad i think when we are kids we don’t realize all the work our parents do for us just because we are their greatest treasure in the world, but when we grow up and have kids we see things in a different perpespective, we can understand now all the sacrifices they do and appreciate and love them even more.
the first part was so funny, thank you cause you always make me smile. you have a unique sense of humor that i love very much!!
you´re one of a kind, JOEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
HAPPY CHRISTMAS FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Muahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh,
Gaby
Mexico
GRACIAS POR VENIR A MEXICO, “BONITO”
AWESOME SHOWS AND WANTING MORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
GRACIAS
WELCOME BACK TO MEXICO, PLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2008 at 10:38 am
Oh, btw, Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday (to you), Happy New Year and Happy Birthday (to me on the 2nd..lol)!!!!!!
December 17th, 2008 at 10:43 am
$200 for a damn tree? I know it’s LA but I live in NYC and my 6 foot tall tree cost me $60! Merry Christmas! Love ya!
December 17th, 2008 at 11:17 am
Awwww, that is the sweetest story! We all know there’s lots of people far worse off than us, but still it’s our own (teeny tiny) worries that effect us the most. Even if it an effing X-mas tree gone brown
Thanks for sharing this with us!
Hope you have a great Christmas, a fabulous birthday and an amazing start of the new year. See ya in Europe
Love from Holland!
December 17th, 2008 at 11:25 am
I love your post, very touching! Especially the word from your Father. Have a blessed Christmas and joyous New Year!
December 17th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Joe,
My parents and MIL always say the same thing too, “Faith.”
Thank you for your message- beautifully written, as usual.
Have a great Christmas, healthy New Year, and fun birthday! My youngest will be one 12/22, so I bet you and I are doing the same thing- saving the tree/ornaments/lights every 10 minutes or so. =)
Thank you for thinking of us during this fun, but busy time!
Vicki, hoping to see you in Cincinnati this summer
December 17th, 2008 at 12:17 pm
I love the story about your dad. Merry Christmas to you and your family!
December 17th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
hi Joey!
merry cristmas! and happy new year!!
may god bless you and your family!
feliz navidad!!
fatima.
asuncion. paraguay!
December 17th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Hey Joe, I have to respond to this one. I am a mother of five and I am always asked that question! So much so that I get annoyed by it. Your Father, I am finding, is RIGHT! It’s all FAITH! And that is what I’m going to make 2009 about… Faith in Christ. I try doing it all my own way and it doesn’t work out. I am not naturally blessed with organizational skills. But with God we can do all. I plan to put that to the test in 2009 and see if I can’t get better results by this time next year!
Bless your heart for trying to make a nice Christmas with a good tree! Bless your wife’s heart for taking the time to string that popcorn and cranberries!
God bless you all!
Carley
December 17th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Merry Christmas Joe, from my family to yours!!
God Bless you and all that you do! Be safe and have lots of fun.
Lots of love, laura
December 17th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
LOL. Thanks for the good wishes Joe. I don’t have a tree yet but my ass is warm and my faith is strong!
If I had to pay $200 FOR A DAMN TREE I don’t think I would have one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hollywood could KISS IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You all might wanna think about planning ahead next time..bye your tree somewhere else and transport it on the bus or something. THAT’S NUTS!!!!!!!
Anyway, Merry Christmas! Hope it’s the best ever! Miss you guys!
Much luv & respect!
December 17th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! So Joey you ain’t payin for delivery huh?! I heard that…carry it yourself
You are great and always so honest and sincere with your post…I always look forward to hearing from you. Don’t worry…when you guys put the tree up and decorate it nicely and see the look on your son’s face as he tries to pull something off of it..it will be worth the $200!!! You and your family have a Merry x-mas and a good new year 
December 17th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
WELL PUT JOE HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO U AND UR FAMILY AS WELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BRCASUE ITS COLD HERE IN NEW YORK WELL IT WAS FIRST ITS 68 AND NOW ITS 30 AND SNOWING GLOBAL WARMIMG IS A BITCH!!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
December 17th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Joe, what an awesome blog!!
You really are so interested and aware of others.
You were the most interested at my M&G in my sob story of traveling to Canada after our Portland show was canceled. You have the ability to touch others with your sincerity.
Thank you for such a great year. Merry Christmas to you and your family as well! Kiss your beautiful son for me too!
xoxo
December 17th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
HI JOE!!
GREAT BLOG!THANKS 4 SHARING TO ALL OF US…SO TRUE N SO FUN…
I JUST WANTTO WISH TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND AN AWESOME NEW YEAR!!
GOD BLESS YOU.
XOXO
VICKY
LET´S GET THIS!!!
December 17th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Merry Christmas to You and yours to Joe, only I don’t want a warm ass as it’s supposed to be in the high 30’s here(celcius)so I’d rather have it cool thanks.
I hope Griffin enjoys this time.
Love & Peace
Hazel from Brisbane Australia
December 17th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Joe~
It is always great to read your blogs. Thanks for sharing and have a Merry Christmas!
~Sharaun “It hurts right here” D.
December 17th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
~Joe~
Merry CHIRSTmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours also. May God bless you with a Healthy and Happy time with your family. All my love.
xoxo
smooches,
kimmee
December 17th, 2008 at 9:51 pm
Choking here! LMAO. $200 for a tree?!? My friend’s mom used to own a tree farm and would charge $20 no matter what kind, size, etc! You got ripped off buddy! But see…I have a fake tree. Pre lit no less!
Merry Christmas Joe! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday.
December 17th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
WOW JOE! That story compelled me to respond after a month long, husband prompted BAN FROM NKOTB.COM. (The man restricted my access to solely NKOTB.COM and its networking site!!!) It reminded me of how down to earth you guys still remain recalling your father’s hardwork raising you and your sibs. It reminds me of why I am STILL FAITHFUL to NKOTB after all these years. When people laugh and ask me “WHY NKOTB? My response was simialr to your dad’s. I am loyal and faithful and after an awesome year, tour and album I have faith in YOU AND NKOTB!!! I HOPE I CAN MEET YOU AGAIN in 2009!
Lovin you guys ’til my last breath on this earth.,
Roma (Bronx, NY)
December 18th, 2008 at 12:06 am
Joey you have always been one of my favorites and each time you write something it remindes me why. You are funny,honest,warm,respectful I could go on and on. If only half the men in this world had the same attitude as you thats all I can say if only! Your wife is lucky. Thanks for putting a smile on my face as I sit here unable to sleep from the pain of my tooth ache ouch! I hope you have a wonderful Christmas and an even better 2009. Cant wait to see you again in Seattle.
December 18th, 2008 at 12:50 am
Hey Joe. I don’t get cold Christmas’s as I live in Australia. I am soo hoping ur family and yourself has a very wonderful Christmas and a very happy 2009. I can’t wait till you guys get ur butts down here to Australia so hopefully it will be a very happy 2009 all round. Please come to Australia soon.
Much love from Australia.
Kim
December 18th, 2008 at 1:42 am
Hi JM,
Weeel, I have not had a tree yet at home, I struggle each year to be allowed to stay in my own space… so I cannot say much about that highway robbery bar imagining you dressed as Zorro or in a mask like ting
or something lol saying the tree or the I elf ya ;)!
But I reckon apart from, no, along with the faith is the nice hope that you’ll get to see the people you love and care for most beaming with warm arses and renewed/topped up faith around a tree of sorts to remind you that be the tree brown, green, white, yellow, real forest grown, pine or plastic, Christmas can really be one of those special end of year gatherings to help see one through another winter.
Hope the tree ain’t brown already, but maybe thats where the decorations and popcorn and cranberries help
Hope you all have a great Xmas.
LJ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx LJ xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx LJ
December 18th, 2008 at 1:51 am
Yeah I know what you mean Joey! I wouldn’t want to pay alot on something like tree and it turn around die after you get it home! For me I have a fake tree at home, because I just don’t want to spend alot on a real tree plus having to take care of it. And good thing about the fake trees you can put up every year without it dieing on you. Anyways I’m glad to hear from as Iv’e missed you. I hope guys have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Brandy
December 18th, 2008 at 6:52 am
AWWWW JOE MAC SO VERY NICE GREAT…. SO ENJOY IT….. SMILE :O) HOPE UR FAMILY SAFELY OF THE HOLIDAYS! I’M SO VERY GLAD HEARD FROM YA NICE SMILE! :O)
LOVE,
BIGGEST #1 FAN
KMB
MERRY CHRISTMAS! AND HAPPY NEW YEAR
AND HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY!! GOD BLESSING!! :O)
December 18th, 2008 at 6:53 am
Hehe. If you get a small potted tree, it won’t die unless you fail to water it. Then you could have a whole new tradition of planting your tree to enjoy for many many years to come! Happy holidays to all of your family.
December 18th, 2008 at 9:39 am
What a great post. Thank you Joe for the Christmas wish. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May this be the best holiday season yet!!!
God Bless, Tammy
December 18th, 2008 at 10:12 am
$200 for a tree?! Holy crappers, Man! They are $30 just around the corner from my house here in MN where everyone has at least 3 of them growing in their yard. LoL!
Me? I spent $100 on a nice fake one 3 years ago with hopes it’ll last quite a few more.
Have a great Christmas, Joey!! Holiday blessings from my family to yours!
Emily
Delano, MN
December 18th, 2008 at 10:26 am
Hey Joe,
That was good for a few laughs. Your dad sounds like a great man.
$200 for a tree, are you crazy! We live in Wisconsin and paid $25.00 for our 7 foot beautiful green tree that we cut down ourselves almost three weeks ago. Oh yeah, we have about a foot and a half of snow outside and more in the forecast for the weekend and it looks beautiful. I’m telling you Christmas in Hollywood doesn’t compare. Anyway, breaking your back carrying the tree and your wife’s frustration with the popcorn & cranberrie garland is well worth it right. I mean, it’s Christmas time and the baby will love it. Just think your little guy will have many wonderful stories about you and your wife and the many things you guys did to make his Christmas special. So suck it up and spend every moment you can with your family and Merry Christmas!
Later, Lea
December 18th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Joe,
Sorry, but I just can’t relate. I wish I could. We always put up a fake tree at Christmas. Yeah, I know…boring! Just wanted to quickly say “Thanks”. Thanks for all you do. Since I was 12 (and I’m 33 now) I’ve been a fan of yours and the New Kids. You’re on my “top 5 celebs I need to meet” someday. Hope you have a great Holiday with family and friends.
Aaron (Krinks)
December 18th, 2008 at 10:52 am
Joe,
I was starting to get teary, until you said “may your ass be warm”. Then I just smiled because I could picture you saying it.
There’s so much to be thankful for this year, lots of important things like a roof over my head, a well paying job, and the health of my family. Lots of trivial things like getting a great parking space while Christmas shopping and not spotting too many gray hairs when I turned 32 a couple of weeks ago.
Somewhere in between I’m thankful for NKOTB and bringing back those wonderful memories of my childhood.
I wish you and your beautiful family a very Merry Christmas, and a healthy and prosperous 2009.
Love, Amanda
December 18th, 2008 at 11:46 am
hi dear !!!
hope you have a wonderfull time this holidays with your family and friends enjoy grifinnnnnn wiht you…
thanks for coming backkkk this years you and the guyssss made my year and made my life better….
fatime in 09 in southamerica dont forget ussss pleaseseeeee
nkotbfans_paraguay
December 18th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Thank you for that funny story (I had to love tears!) and the warm words. I wish you and your family a very merry christmas!
Can’t wait to see you in Frankfurt - hope to see Barrett and Griffin too! (does he use the sleeping bag yet?!)
Love
Janine & family
PS … But - why do you put popcorn on a christmas tree?! lol
December 18th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
200$ waow! too much for me!! here i paid 26€ for a good christmas tree!! whatever your in hollywood!!!
but christmas is so beautifull : chritsmas tree, chritmas light, chrismas village and christmas songs.
When i decorate my house for chritmas time : i put a christmas songs CD begin by my christmas tree, my christmas village and put lights outside i love do that and when the night is begin to fall i open all the christmas lights and all my familly comes home for diner.
So have a very beautifull christmas time with all your family!! i wish a very happy new year, and all your wish become reality!!!
Love Isa
December 18th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
Joey–
I can’t believe that you pay almost $200 for a lot xmas tree. I agree with you–that’s a rip-off. I’m sorry, but here in NJ, they have equipment to cut the three down and ride it back to the check-out. They tag them early for us, then when you go to pick it up (set up the date in advance), they cut it down right there.
So, yeah, I can’t believe they’re still doing it that way in Hollywood. Ha.
Anyway–funny story. Thanks for sharing!
Merry Christmas!!!
Kim, NJ
December 18th, 2008 at 1:20 pm
I meant tree, not three. fyi.
December 18th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Get a plastic one & reuse it - better for the environment!
Popcorn & cranberries ?? You Americans have strange traditions but then I guess we probably have worse ones in the UK
For us it is coloured lights, tinsel & as much tackiness as we can muster as well as the handmade lollipop stick star at the top my 2 year old son brought home from nursery yesterday!!! Kids make Christmas magical again.
Have a great Christmas and New Year, see you in Birmingham in 30 days and counting.
Love ya always xx
December 18th, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Joey,
Children make christmas so special my children have make most of my decoration for my tree I even have some of the ones I made as a child when yours grow up u will appreciate them, they may not look trendy but they come from the heart. Sending a very Merry Christmas to you guys and all your families may they be filled with joy.j
See you at the O2 London 24 Jan.
Love Maria & Family xxxx
December 18th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
Hey Joe! I loved your story! I have lived in Minnesota all my life and have NEVER owned a real tree, sad right!! But $200??!! I still can’t wrap my head around that :o)
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!
~hugs~
Kim
December 18th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
Just can quote you ….
“May your tree be green. May your ass be warm. May your faith be strong.
A Safe, Peaceful and Very Merry Christmas, from my family to yours.”
HAPPY HOLLIDAYS,DEAR
December 18th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Aaawh Joey! I’ve missed your funny and insightful blogs…thank you!
What more to say but that I wish you and your loved ones a beautiful, safe, and happy Christmas and a fantastic New Year!
Keeping the faith good and strong here in California & sending kisses by the millions to you!
Natalia
December 18th, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Joey.. Just wanted to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and your family. Hope you have a good one. Here in Las Vegas, we’ve had a White Christmas. What with the snow and all. Hugs and kisses to you!!!
Stephanie Walchli
December 18th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Joey…my response to you worrying about your tree browning is to get a fake one!! I’ve had one for many years and my girls love it just the same. I know it’s not as special as the real one but still.. I know how your wife is feeling. Much love to you & your family at this time of year. Hope you get plenty of rest and relaxtion and hope to see you this summer!
December 19th, 2008 at 3:38 am
Dear Joey,
Thank you so much for your beautiful message! I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and relaxed Christmas time!! I´m looking very much forward to see you on tour in January and February!! Love and take care, Yvonne
December 19th, 2008 at 10:02 am
Aw, sweetie. Hope your holiday continues to be blessed.
kisses and love and hugs
December 19th, 2008 at 10:36 am
I knew you were asd are the most swee man in the world. Thank you.
Special Merry Xmas for you and your family. God Bless you!!!! now and Forever!!!
December 19th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Merry Christmas to you and your family. God Bless.
I hope the tree lasts through Christmas. That is why mine comes out of a box with lights already on it…lol. I have no patience for a real tree.
December 19th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
Hi Joe.
I didn’t know a whole lot of information about buying a live tree
and how much hard work goes into growing and buying Christmas trees.
My mom was an older lady from the south and when I was a kid,that is all
she would ever talk about getting around this time of the year, a “fresh,pretty,living tree”.
It makes me laugh just to think about her saying that(hahaha)!!!
I think their is nothing wrong with wanting to save money cause I do the
same thing.
With today’s economy,I’m sure a lot of folks are.
I hope it gets better!
The way you described your wife decorating the tree with popcorn & cranberries makes me hungry and I’ll bet you the tree is so cute afterwards:)
I love watching everyone else put up decorations,lights,
etc….
The way I put up my fake trees every year is crazy
and my family makes fun of me for that reason:(
Your dad sounds like a very strong,hardworking guy who loves his family:)
Well,I pray that you and your family have a Very Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year!
God Bless
Natalie
December 19th, 2008 at 3:53 pm
Joe- wishing you and your family a very Merry and warm Christmas. Have a happy birthday and wonderful New Year!!!!
Vicki
December 19th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
teehee..nice to hear to still modest and frugel … haha! and good on getting a real tree, i cant stand .. i mean loathe the mess they make !!! have a great christmas also.
December 19th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
I feel your pain Joe!!!
We are on our 2nd tree already this year!!!!
Have a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year.
See you guys in 2009!!!
XOXOXO
December 19th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
Awww Joe!! I totally feel ya on this one!! My husband and I are much the same…which is why we go the artificial route. Your dad is a wise man…always keep your faith in tact and everything else falls into place. Merry Christmas from my family to you, your beautiful wife and baby boy!!! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox…
PS - Is the tour gonna be on DVD??
Are you coming back to Jersey???
December 20th, 2008 at 1:44 am
Hehe..aww…Joe, that’s so you! So funny..’highway robbery’ jokes..your poor wife..lol :p Your post cracked me up!
Thank you for giving us such a personal message..I loved hearing it.
We are getting a real one and planting it..lol my fiance hates that they die too..lol
Random thought..lol~ When I was 11 we got our tree home and I was sitting by it and a bumble bee flew out of it and scared the crap out of me!! lol
~*Kelly*~
December 20th, 2008 at 8:18 am
May your days be merry & bright & may all your Christmas’ be white…(come back to Toronto for that guarantee…lol)
Love & Blessings to you and your family this Holiday Season!!! All the best for 2009.
December 20th, 2008 at 9:16 am
Enjoy Xmas time Joe with your wife and the little boy. Take care. I don’t make any xmas tree this year. Don’t want. I’ve payed myself a big gift (a wii game machine) and i’ve bought some foods that we don’t use to eat the rest of the year. I’m just with my dad. Peace and love to you. From a french…
December 20th, 2008 at 2:57 pm
Hey Joey,
I totally understand where you are coming from though… However, living in R.I. we don’t have to pay $200 for a tree, maybe about $35-45 at the most. My fience always tries to talk the price down. You must think we’re the cheapo’s now lol. He does work hard for his money though, he just bought land and had a house plopped down on it just a year ago. So you can only imagine all the work that needs to be done on it. Well, the downstairs is completley finished now, he just has the upstairs to worry about. It’s a really cute house and I can’t wait to live with him! My father is very old fashioned, if you know what I mean… So I’m trying to break the news to him in the most respectful way possible. (I’m a 25 year old girl who’s worried about what her father is going to say about moving in with her fience) can you say pathetic lol. Ok, well I probably just bored you with all of that, but thanks for taking the time to read it
Love,
Kristin
December 21st, 2008 at 9:21 pm
Hi Joey!
Have a Safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!!
Can’t wait to see you all again in 2009!!!
Always,
Kim
xoxo
December 24th, 2008 at 11:05 pm
Hi Joey
You are so funny and a very good in telling us in whats going on in your life.Have you ever thought of writing a book.You are good with works and write it a way that makes it really funny.You have a talent there Joey.
Anyway I would be frustrated too with spending a lot of money on a tree that died straight away or in a short period of time.I have had fake tree all my married life/I have used years trying to talk hubby into a real tree but every year he has given me the speech about killing trees and how much we spend on them and how fast they die.I agree to a certain degree but would be nice to have one.I remember when I was little going to my grandfathers cabin in the woods tramping through snow and cutting our christmas tree.those were the days.
Aww sounds like your dad was a very hard working man.
I hope that you,Barrett and little man Griffin have a wonderful Christmas.This year will be lots of fun and paper everywhere now that Griffin can rip open the paper.Have fun with that lol.MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES.HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY JOEY.hope to see you in 2009
December 25th, 2008 at 4:16 am
We’re having “fun” with our Christmas tree this year too. You see, we adopted a kitty this summer & I doubt wherever he lived before, they ever had one because he thinks it’s his own personal plaything :P.One look at his cute fuzzy face when he saw it, we knew we had TROUBLE!!! After a short 2 or 3 hours, we had to take down the ornaments & HOPE just the lights would be OK…Alright, we were dreaming. He’s broken the glass lights on a couple & then during another night, bit through the wire on another set. Since then, we watch him crawl under it, ready to eat it or who knows what else…or sit crouched down looking like he’s about to do battle with imaginary mice or birds in it, sigh. It’s coming down tomorrow. Boo hoo. I LOVE laying on the sofa, looking at the pretty lights & sparkling ornaments & shiny ribbon we use for garland. I’ll miss it next year, but I think to keep Boo Boo (our cat) safe, & our nerves in tack, there will be no more trees at our house. Not fair. Two of my kids also adopted cats this past year & theirs are behaving. If I have to chose…I keep the cat. He’s adorable…LOVES to sing in a high voice & is either very shy or nutty & all my friends call him Jordan Jr, LOL. I DID NOT name him after any of you ;)…He just acts like Jordan. Ha ha. I HOPE Jordan doesn’t treat his tree like Boo Boo…IF he does, he’d be pretty CRAZY! I wonder how his pets are treating his tree?!
Gail
Hope you and your little family in Cali & your BIG family in MA all have a wonderful Christmas & the VERY BEST NEW YEAR EVER. Love to you and them all,
December 25th, 2008 at 10:44 pm
JOEY JOE, WHAT A GREAT BLOG. JUST WANTED TO SAY MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU AND BARRETT AND GRIFFIN, HE IS SO SWEET, YOU MUST BE SUCH A PROUD PAPA!!!!:) BE SAFE AND TAKE CARE OH AND BY THE WAY A BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES YOUR WAY. LOVE ALWAYS, MELISSA
December 27th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
hi joe, we need to talk about that tree. firt heat is bad for the tree. second do u water it. they have a thing that when u stick the tree up u put water at the base. it stays green longer. and third they make fake trees on perpose. joe for me i don’t have to worry about a tree i have a small house.. lol love you lots merry christmas and a happy new year. chrystyna
December 28th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Merry Christmas to my fav 5 people and their families! Joe, cherish these memories because they grow up so fast. I think we all have our “horror” stories buying christmas trees!! They’re charging $20/foot here in NYC. When are you guys coming back?
December 29th, 2008 at 3:23 am
Wishing you and your Loved Ones a very Merry Christmas filled with lots of love, joy, and happiness. Many Blessings to you always! Please come to Argentina!!!
December 29th, 2008 at 3:25 am
come to argentina! come to argentina! come to argentina! come to argentina please!!!
December 31st, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Just wanting to wish you a very happy birthday and hope you get all you wish for. I also hope you guys come back to the states to tour again. With much love!!
Sylvia
January 15th, 2009 at 9:28 am
Hey Joe!
I’m too late but at least, here I am!! I hope you had a joyful Xmas, happy 2009!! Remember, you have a great place in my heart, I think of you every single day of my life (not the same way I do with Donnie)…Please come to Spain!!! Also, Happy Bday…HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JOE!!! I celebrated it on my own for you…I love you!
Always,
Mia
January 15th, 2009 at 11:33 pm
haha you are hilarious with your tree talk. Im just leaving this comment because i havent been able to in months because of some technical problems.so yay! I can now leave comments!
January 16th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
What about Little Rock, ARkansas. YOu have been here before and we even have a better venue than last time… years ago.
January 18th, 2009 at 4:51 pm
Does anyone know if the guys are coming to Lafayette, LA? I heard on the radio like a month ago that they were in negotiations. I hate to travel all the way to Bosier City, LA especially if they are coming to Lafayette. My hubby would string me up if I bought tickets to Bosier City and then the guys announced additional tour dates (one of witch hopefully Lafayette). OMG!! Any info greatly appreciated.
January 20th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
dear joe
and my husband very ungry with me and my cats,but was a nice Christmas.Please comback to Mexico we love yours a lottttt the club mexican style nkotb always will be waiting for yourrrrrrrssss
my husband and me was so bussy in the last days that we forgot buy the tree!so when we was to buy it just find a little tree not so expensive like you tree but a little small and my cats was very happy playing with my poor tree
January 22nd, 2009 at 1:31 pm
hey joe,hope you are enjoying your time in the uk well well well havent you blossomed into a handsome man loved the gig in scotland had a blast,hope you guys dont leave it too long next time bye the way loved the kilts at the end mr mac hope you were a try scotsman lol take care of yourself.
nadira from bonnie scotland xxxxxxx
January 25th, 2009 at 5:44 am
hi! First kiss and hug from me. I have just one question…is there any chance that New Kids come in Croatia? Please,please,please…