I had a difficult time finding free events this week that were not about Thanksgiving or Christmas! Of course, there are many free activities and festivals surrounding the opening of the holiday season, but I was even able to find a few things you can do if you aren't interested in decking the halls right now. You can go to a street festival, see chocolate, get some history and visit the State Capitol. Read more...

As a follow-up to the question that I received about living Christmas trees in Phoenix, for many people purchasing a living tree and then planting it might be too complicated. I have also been asked about the possibility of purchasing a cut tree, taking a cutting and planting it. Well, that makes sense if you want to feel that you have given back to nature by replacing the tree that was cut. I consulted a tree expert on the matter. Here's what Steve Nix, the About.com Guide to Forestry had to say:

"It is usually species specific. Your chances are nearly zero if a tree has already been cut over 24 hours no matter what species it is. Willow and cottonwood (water-loving) species are the best trees to root from cuttings without a hormone (just stick cutting in the ground). Many trees can only root from a cutting if you dip the cut in an auxin (plant hormone). The conifers do not easily respond to this technique."

Some people can't buy a living tree and replant it. For others, taking a cutting from a live, cut tree and then getting permission to plant it somewhere (if it isn't in your own yard) might not be an option. Here are some other ways in which you can be 'green' and recycle your tree.

I received an email today from Laura.

I'm wondering if you know of any place in Maricopa County or surrounding areas for that matter that you could buy a tree but then plant one. I can't seem to find any place like that. It's very important that we replant a tree. Please advise.

Good question, Laura! Even though it takes some more effort to care for a living Christmas tree, I'll bet that more people this year are thinking along the same lines. I made a few calls and discovered that Moon Valley Nursery locations will sell them. Call your nearest location first to make sure that they have them before you go. I also note that Mother Nature's Farm in Gilbert has trees that may be dug up instead of cut.

Do you know of another place in or near Phoenix that is selling living Christmas trees? Please post the name and location in the "comments" below.

Thanksgiving travel always a challenge, and this year will be no different. Next week will be one of the busiest times of the year at Sky Harbor. On the busiest day, Wednesday, an estimated 125,000 passengers will travel through Sky Harbor Airport, about 40 percent more than a typical Wednesday when about 90,000 people pass through.

If you are driving to the airport this year, Sky Harbor is encouraging you to park in one of the airport terminal lots by offering a discount.

You can download a coupon to get up to 40 percent off the full-day rate when you park at Sky Harbor terminals from today through November 30, 2009. Covered parking? Right in the terminal? At 40% off? Sweet!

I am a believer in doing whatever I can to de-stress holiday travel. Leave plenty of time to get to the airport, park, and get through security. If you are checking bags you'll want to make sure you get to the front of the ticket counter line within the required time limits for your airline. Sky Harbor is a busy place on a normal weekend, but on these holidays it might be worth your while to take a few minutes and note these tips for holiday travel in and out of the Phoenix airport.

You Might Also Be Interested In....

• Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Guide
• Thanksgiving in Phoenix
• How To Reduce the Stress of Traveling
• Rules for Carry-On Luggage