Traditionally, M and I disagree about the Christmas tree. Not about getting one, but about when we get it.

If he had his way, M would set it up probably as soon as the nights started getting darker. If he hadn’t managed to keep it up all year. Proper Christmas elf, he is.

Me, well, I think we should wait until the weekend before Christmas. Admittedly, when we visit family, that’s probably a bit late to really enjoy the festive decorations.

This year, though, there was no disagreement.

We took advantage of Storm Darragh’s Red Weather Warning, which covered where we live and which advised Staying Home Wherever Possible. So we did. And put up the Christmas tree, and the Christmas lights, so we now have a gnome in the window. And a polar bear.

Allegedly, Tiny chose the gnome. M claims not to have even seen it until Tiny ran over to it and pulled it off the shelf. I’m not sure if I believe him. But it is quite a cheery gnome for the window.
There’s no real rhyme or reason to the decorations though. They’re mostly just what we’ve collected over the years, and what have survived the last few Christmases of Tiny’s existence. And so far this year.

The baubles might need replacing next year. We’ve already lost a little bauble-tree.

But the Festive Spirit feels alive and well, with parcels beginning to pile up under the tree and festive treats filling the kitchen. Lebkuchen is a particular favourite at this time of year. And panettone.