My first memory is a fight between my parents at Christmas, which became extremely violent. All through childhood, any holiday meant the two of them were in the same place at the same time long enough for a bitter argument at least. Bless their hearts, they thought they were staying together for my benefit. Anyhow, I've always hated this holiday. At work they call me Scrooge. Whatever. It seems like There is always someone trying to shove Christmas down my throat! Usually for the sake of whatever kids are around I force myself to put up the tree, cook and bake for days, and spend too much money. This year there is no money, and the added stress of finances has me unable to put up my normal front, which has the entire family annoyed with me. We put last years tree out back in the woods for birds to nest in, or whatever, I'm thinking of dragging it out and putting the dead tree up as a statement next time someone starts to nag!