Ever since holly and ivy have been used in festivities around midwinter because they are evergreen, they have been associated with Christmas.  They were used as decorations and holly was referred to as the “Christmas tree" until Queen Victoria’s husband introduced the tradition to decorate homes with a fir tree.  Two weeks ago there were masses of holly berries close to the house but now the birds have eaten most of them so there are few left and most of the ivy flowers have developed into berries so my natural decorations will probably not include any holly. 
The Holly and the Ivy
When they are both full grown 
Of all the trees that are in the wood 
The holly bears the crown 
Oh the rising of the sun 
And the running of the deer 
The playing of the merry organ 
Sweet Singing In The Choir
...........


Carol 2