My Christmas tree is artificial and bright pink. There, I said it. For many, my tree is an abomination of the holiday tradition, which typically includes a verdant evergreen tree, be it real or not.

Purple, teal, sapphire and lime-green bows, balls, birds and ribbons adorn my festive tree, as well as high-heeled shoe ornaments and colorful faux tree sprigs that glitter under the white lights.

“It looks like an Easter egg,” remarked one of my friends. Then she said that she didn’t intend to hurt my feelings, that my tree was pretty but it would never set foot in her house. I respect her opinion and when I chose to have a pink tree, I expected some dissenting remarks.

For the complete article, please pick up a copy of The Daily Reflector or purchase today’s electronic edition at http://www.reflector.com/circ-store. Current home delivery and electronic edition subscribers may log in to access this article at no charge. To become a subscriber, please click here or contact Customer Service at (252) 329-9505.