Do they know it's Christmas?

Dear friends and followers,
thank you so very much for all your comments and private e-mails about the recent tragic events happening in my circle. Your words of comfort and continuous support really uplifts my mood.
Such awful things happening to such great people like the families of friends that were hurt by those accidents is so much more painful when one thinks that it's Christmas time nearby and people are supposed to be happy and celebrating. But do these families know it's Christmas?
We were thinking of putting the tree up on Sunday but alas the funeral of my ex student came up!
Then I decided I wasn't going to put a tree up this year. I wasn't in the mood.There is so much sorrow around me.
But yesterday evening my son and hubby were both at home and it was a cozy, quiet evening. I was ready to sip some coffee and sit down to write some Christmas mail (of which unfortunately I am very late and really not in the mood to accomplish) when as a sparkle of hope in my mind I said "Get up and put the Christmas tree.You have a family to look after!You have to be strong!"
It took me a second to say it before having second thoughts and as soon as I announced it hubby and son obliged and did their best to put the tree up. It is in a big heavy box, it isn't an easy thing to do. But they were both great in helping out. Some Christmas music was playing on the CD player and the tree was made up.

Then I started decorating it. I wasn't really in a mood for that either. I have about ten boxes of Christmas ornaments, some old vintage from my parents, lots I bought every year because I love Christmas ornaments and lots I have made or cross stitched myself. Also lots that were gifted to me and some recent purchases.
I only managed to open two boxes and put those on the tree.

And hubby changed the sofa cover from the summer to the winter one(it's only been winter here for a week now!)
And that was that.I sat down and looked at it depressed, ready to cry for those gone recently and in previous years, beloved ones and even just acquaintances.For my father and grandmother and my father-in-law.For relatives,friends, neighbours,colleagues but also, most tragically, ex students! They are always with me!