Before Mary left for Taiwan, she commented to me how much she liked the odd little pine tree in the back yard. Apparently the rest of her family teased her that it is a “Charlie Brown” tree. But right then I decided that it needed to be decorated when Christmas came around. Sure enough, a week ago I headed out and wrapped 250 lights around it. Since then it’s been my cheerful little friend, shining brightly through the snow and ice. I often peer through the kitchen window or out the patio window just to enjoy the glow. No neighbors can see it. It’s only my little treat to myself. But I really like it!