we have a Christmas tree

We have a Christmas tree!

Yes, I know, we have a Christmas tree every year, there is nothing unusual about having a Christmas tree, so far it only has the lights on (and a peacock which my mother fished out of the decorations box and buried deep among the needles), it is a real tree and making its realness manifest in the form of needles already falling on the carpet and lying stealthily in wait to jab hapless feet, a Christmas tree is quite usual, one should not be so astonished by having a Christmas tree . . .

But we have a Christmas tree.

And yes, it is positioned in the hall between my bedroom and the room with my computer in, and so when I try to navigate between the two late at night I will have to remember it is there in order to avoid any hilarious little contretemps involving knocking the entire tree over, which I am sure would greatly amuse the rest of my family . . .

But we have a Christmas tree.

My sister is home for the holidays. My Christmas presents are all bought and just need wrapping. My mother made mince pies yesterday, and will make more tomorrow. It's Christmas in three days.

And we have a Christmas tree.