Trimming the tree?????

The Christmas tree finally came down yesterday since it was pretty much dried out.  While it was still in the tree stand, I trimmed off the branches.  Now I will start processing it so it can be used in pillows and sachets.  A small amount of heat is necessary to be able to easily strip the needles off so I have loaded some on the branches into the insulted box that has a 200 watt light bulb in it that my husband made me just for this purpose.  I call it the balsam safe since it is about the same size as a small floor safe. I am always a bit surprised once I get the branches off the tree, now little small is compacts to.  It has been "cooking for about 24 hours now so it is time to starts stripping and them put the needles in the freezer until I am ready to use them.