Little Tree Glow

A Tabletop Forest

They bring home a small tree and place it at the center of the table, letting the room lights dim until the branches do the speaking. A red star crowns the top. When the string of bulbs flickers on, the apartment changes temperature—not warmer in degrees, but in mood—like someone opened a door and invited December inside.

Dress-Up Moments

Out come the little treasures: round red baubles, a felt stocking, a cheerful “Merry Christmas” sign, and a generous ribbon tied in a neat bow. They hang each piece slowly, trading tiny jobs and approving nods. Nothing is expensive, everything is loved. The tree looks confident, as if sized for their home on purpose.

Circle of Light

A soft band of LEDs rings the base and spills onto the tabletop, drawing a bright halo that catches falling needles and tiny shadows of twigs. They both pause at how the glow makes the tree look taller than it is. In the quiet hum of the lights, even the TV behind it becomes a dark window framing the shine.

Background Guests

To the side, wrapped gifts wait with patient faces, corners crisp and curious. Farther back, a guitar leans like an extra guest who knows all the carols. They promise that after cocoa they’ll try one—maybe the easy three-chord song they both can play—because decorations feel braver when music joins the room.

Small Traditions, Big Cheer

They talk about how to keep the season simple: one favorite cookie, one movie night, one text to someone who could use a kind word. The tree becomes the switch that starts these plans. Each evening, they intend to add a note, an ornament, or a new story, so December grows not busier but kinder.

Packing the Glow for Later

They know this tree will come down in a few weeks, carefully wrapped and tucked away. Still, the best part travels: the habit of making space for light, of choosing a small bright thing and letting it lead. For now, they sit a little closer, admire the bow, and let the tiny forest keep the night gentle.