Thanks for sharing, Paul
When I was a tiny tot, we had an aluminum tree at least one year. I remember the light with a rotating cover that had 3-4 colors on it. As the cover rotated, the tree changed color. I also remember cutting our own tree one year -- since I was 9 or 10, what I remember most was cold and snow and not much fun. I don't think we did that very often.
We usually had a live tree, and dad would build a wooden X and nail it to the bottom of the tree trunk, then bring it inside. Our livingroom was huge, and we had pocket doors between the living room and the formal dining room. Sometimes we'd put the tree there, and be able to enjoy it from both rooms.
My folks eventually went the artificial route, as well. Me? I'm single and live alone - if I bring a tree in the house, my dogs think I've gifted them with an indoor potty. So I celebrate, but I don't decorate. But I love looking at other peoples' trees, and have enjoyed this trip down memory lane with you.