It seems to happen about the same time each year. As the leaves fall to the ground and the air gets chilly, a tree magically appears in the house – in my favorite place! Soon it’s lit up with glowing and sparkling things – and occasionally one of them crashes to the ground barely missing me. I’m not sure what this is all about, but I liked things the way they were before the massive tree arrived. This was my space. It was comfortable and safe – with no flying objects.
The only problem is that my mom seems to like it. Almost every night she curls up on the couch with a fluffy blanket while the tree is all lit up. As I nuzzle in, we watch a show with people decorating trees like the one that’s invading my space, and there’s always a couple who seem like they’re licking each other’s faces in the final scene. A happy ending is guaranteed. That makes my mom smile. I think she calls it the Hallmark Channel or something like that. Anyway, I like that part – especially the snuggling with Mom.
There are actually a few other perks of the tree: an extra water dish that has an earthy kind of taste. I’m not supposed to drink it, but why else would it be there? And then there’s a comfy new bed under the tree. It has this soft, velvety blanket that I snuggle up in when I’m not on Mom’s lap.
It’s very peaceful as long as no sparkly objects are propelling down on me. I like the music too, although the songs seem to have the same words – snow, mistletoe, Santa, Christmas, Jesus. I think I heard the word “gift,” which I think is some sort of treat. So another perk may be coming soon. Last time this happened, I got yummy chicken jerky in a stocking that was as big as me. My name was even on it, which made me feel special.
So, I guess the invasion is not all bad. And if it’s like last time, it won’t last forever. All of a sudden one day the tree will be back outside – but not all of it. These prickly needles get left behind. They don’t taste or feel good, but Mom takes care of everything and soon life is back to normal.
Despite the home invasion, I feel loved and am reminded that I am cared for. Maybe that’s exactly what this time of year is all about.
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