We're decorating the tree tonight -- got frasier fir at a nearby farm-stand, the boxes are down from the attic and the Armenian brandy is flowing (thanks again, Andre). We got a few things done last night too, setting up with the ladder and the hanging-icicle-lights on the snowy front step. No dice. Still can't reach high enough. And besides, the foot of the ladder kept sinking into the not-quite-frozen lawn. I don't need additional back injury. So we re-focused our effort on the dogwood-type tree outside the living room window. We coated the thing in lights -- I won't be suprised if the next-door-neighbors ring our bell to complain they can't sleep.

Anyway, the boys are putting ornaments on the tree right now. I better get back down there. Got chicken wings in the oven, smothered in Jamaican jerk spice. Can't wait.