Negotiating the fine scented art of Christmas tree selection

Earlier this month I tentatively suggested we change the family tradition of buying a real tree at Christmas.

- Susan Morrison

Yes, I freely admit, I was swayed by the daytime telly adverts for fake Canadian Spruces.

I worried I might miss the scent of the real thing but, fear not, capitalism has stepped in sharpish and developed a range of body sprays for trees to keep your spruce smelling, well, spruce.

I knew this potential change would have miffed our cats. They both believe that this time of the rolling year is Giant Cat Scratching Pole with Pine-tasting Water Bowl season. Gertie is particularly fond of a festive evening slurp.

Anyway, the proposed tradition-busting died in the face of my children's wails of disappointment. They're both well into adulthood, but they're still my kids. Few parents can ride out the guilt trip of sad wee faces.