"My grandpa started this Christmas tree farm in the 1970s. They named the farm, J&J Robinson Christmas Tree Farm, since their names were John and Jessica Robinson. By the time I was born in 1989, there were 80 acres of trees and it was a pretty huge operation! I remember walking through the fields with my Grandpa as he graded the trees with different coloured flagging tape. Each colour meant something different. I also remember crawling through rows upon rows of cut and baled trees that were marked for Ontario, and the huge truck that came to ship them off to other provinces. As young as 12, I was tasked with farm work, from picking up stumps to butt-pruning the trees. As a youngster I was quite a slow worker… I liked to talk to each tree individually. As I grew older I helped plant and shear the trees as well, and I became faster over time. When my Grandpa passed away, my Dad took over the farm, and runs it to this day. He re-named the farm Red-Robin Christmas Trees - honouring both surnames, his own - Redmond, and my Grandpa's - Robinson. Plus, there are a lot of red-robin birds on the property. My dad has scaled down the operation over the years, as 80 acres became unsustainable as a "retirement project." The farm now boasts a beautiful 40 acres of spray and pesticide free balsam fir trees, and has become a community hub in the winter with cross-country ski trails and snowshoe trails for all to enjoy. The operation has also become more community centred in that we have local artisans selling their wares during the season. You'll usually find beautiful handmade knit hats and mitts, handmade Christmas ornaments, preserves such as jams, jellies, relishes, and yummy baked goods for sale as well. We're so grateful to be able to serve our community in this way, bringing some extra holiday cheer to the season." ~ Jennifer Redmond, daughter