Like Ladyfisher, I hate to let Christmas go, though the way we celebrate it now is overblown a bit.

My wife and I remember when the tree and decorations did not go up till Christmas Eve. We speculate that our folks were more in tune with the penitential Advent Season that the churches observed. Even Christmas Eve was a Fast Day. Then the party started on Christmas and went on through the traditional 12 nights ending on the Epiphany (3 Kings Day, Jan. 7, this year).

Now the party starts right after Halloween and culminates with the New Year's Orgy. When did it become de rigueur to start the year with a hangover? Were the old ways better? At least there is a case for keeping the tree lit till the Kings find their way.

PS, my rule is that the tree must be removed by Ash Wednesday. The old ways die hard.



Xmas all year!