I think our tree may have been abused as a sapling

I think we left it too late to get our tree this year. Our first choice tree lot was gone; the second choice was unattended and had a sign "any tree $10, put bills in slot;" the third had some decent-looking trees, but when we got ours home it started dropping needles like a butterfingered knitter. Since then it's been sucking down water at a furious rate, a half-gallon a day or more. Thirstiest tree we've ever had, by far. But still, it's up and decorated and looks lovely. Happy solstice, all!

( clicks for pix )