Milton-Freewater’s Sargent family has transformed their struggles into a thriving Christmas tree business, marking a new chapter in their lives. On December 5, 2023, as the day turned from gloomy to bright, the family prepared for customers at Cross Country Tree Service, their second year selling Christmas trees. This season, they are making a concerted effort to promote their offerings, aiming to bring joy and affordability to the community.
Brothers John Sargent and Jace Sargent worked diligently, arranging rows of Nordmann and noble fir trees, some towering at 10 feet. Sourced from McKenzie Farms in Oregon City, the trees are known for their fullness and symmetry. As they stocked firewood and wreaths, their wives, Mindy Sargent and Jessica Sargent, set up a hot cocoa station, creating a warm atmosphere for visitors. With a crackling firepit nearby and Christmas music playing, the scene felt festive and inviting.
Building this business has been a journey of redemption for the Sargent family. John and Mindy are eager to share their story of overcoming adversity and finding purpose. “I want the world to know it’s possible,” Mindy expressed. From their beginnings selling firewood two decades ago to acquiring the former Zerba Gardens nursery five years ago, the Sargents have worked tirelessly to revitalize the neglected six-acre site.
The couple’s journey has not been without challenges. John battled a lengthy opioid addiction, which strained his family life. Mindy, married to John since 2009, witnessed firsthand the struggles and the toll addiction took on their lives. “It got to a point where he was going to lose everything,” she recalled. Ultimately, John found a path to recovery through faith and support from Pendleton’s Life Church. In 2017, he enrolled in the Adult & Teen Challenge PacWest, a faith-based rehabilitation program.
John’s journey to sobriety was complemented by Jace’s own commitment to recovery, who joined the program shortly after John graduated. Their shared experience fostered a strong bond and a renewed sense of purpose.
During a cleanup of their new property, John stumbled upon a stash of old Christmas tree stands. This discovery sparked the idea to revive the local tradition of selling Christmas trees. In 2023, the family purchased 200 trees and evergreen garland to offer to the community. Although their inaugural season lacked extensive marketing, it was clear they aimed to be a welcoming presence rather than seeking profit. “We want to shine a light in our community,” Mindy stated.
Looking ahead, the Sargents plan to expand their inventory, starting with 300 trees for the 2024 season and aspiring to reach 500 in future years. They intend to keep prices between $50 and $200, ensuring that families can afford beautiful trees without breaking the bank. The hot chocolate station and the cozy atmosphere are designed to evoke nostalgia, reminding locals of a time when buying a Christmas tree was a cherished holiday tradition.
With their business, the Sargents hope to leave a lasting legacy. “Now we’re trying to build a legacy, to leave something after we’re gone,” Mindy emphasized. They believe their message of hope and redemption can inspire others facing similar struggles.
As the holiday season unfolds, the Sargent family invites the community to visit their tree lot at Cross Country Tree Service, located at 85019 Highway 11, Milton-Freewater. The lot operates Monday to Friday from 16:00 to 19:00 and Saturday to Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00. The family’s journey is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of community support, as they look forward to creating new memories and traditions for families in the area.
