In the past, Bickerstaff would wait well into Advent before putting up the Christmas tree. This year he asked himself, why the wait? Not coming up a with a good answer, save perhaps for lingering protestantisms informing his thinking, your Tatler decided Advent I being today, the tree goes up today.
Another decision was made, which might be deemed Ambrosian, viz., “When in Rome, do as the Romans” (Si fueris Romae Romano vivito more). Being in New Mexico, the fir Christmas tree of tradition back east and abroad seemed not appropriate. A visit was made to the nearby Mexican tin shop and the ersatz tree you see above has taken its place. To these eyes, it is lovely.
Feliz Navidad.
The Taos Tatler 