This Polly Pockets are currently at the scene of the Nativity substituting for the wisemen before their arrival. Two pink plastic bowling balls, rather than rum balls, are greeting visitors at the front door. A koala bear keeps watch under the Christmas tree, diverting attention from the baubles beckoning the hands of little ones. The ‘keepy uppy” balloon has been popped, just to lessen the stress of its eventual bursting with a toddler’s teeth. The jingle bell necklace is now adorning the reindeer on the buffet so as not to knock someone’s teeth out in its swinging to and fro. The table runner is no longer within reach of little hands who attempted to pull it off with decor and all attached. And the window seat, usually festooned with beautiful ornaments, lights, possibly candles? Empty.
We are decoratively ready for the season. “Peace,” be unto all.