“T’was the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”

- Clement Clarke Moore

- Tree trimmed and lit: check

- House fragrant with balsam whiffs: check

- Modest-sized pile of Thoughtful Gifts wrapped and set under the tree: check

- Ribbons tied round Thoughtful Gifts and low-branch ornaments shredded and battered by Resident Feline: check

- Elf duty completed re. stockings hung by the chimney with care: check

- Pitcher of home-made egg nog chilling in the fridge: check

- Some book-shaped Thoughtful Gifts under the tree: check

- Feline looking smug about shredded ribbons and battered ornaments: check

- Head start on the home-made egg-nog: check

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

Check.