Well, I decided to get a real tree this year even though I have two young cats and have advised other folks to wait until their pets grow up more, to tempt them with such a thing. So far, the cats have not been too impressed with it. The spot where I have the tree has freed up a window sill at the same time and the cats seemed more impressed with that than having the tree in front of the window. Tonight I shall put decorations on the tree. We shall see. I also secured the tree stand to a piece of plywood so that it will be less likely to fall over. I might have to tie the tree top to a ceiling hook as well, but hope that it will not be necessary. Anyone have any better ideas? Wish me luck!