Ten Christmas fairies, living in my tree --
one slid down a candy cane and scraped her knee.

Nine Christmas fairies, sitting on a bough --
one fell off a wilted branch and broke her brow.

Eight Christmas fairies were flying to the top --
I didn't see it happen, but I heard one drop.

Seven Christmas fairies swung from a popcorn string --
one fairy bumped a silver bell and made it ring.

Six Christmas fairies threw caution to the air --
one cartwheeled from the star, and then she wasn't there.

Five Christmas fairies perched on five ornaments --
one tiny sprite who slipped has never been seen since.

Four Christmas fairies grabbed onto tinsel strands --
Soon I bade a fond farewell to one with slipp'ry hands.

Three Christmas fairies hopped onto Santa's sleigh --
one didn't leave in time before he rode away.

Two Christmas fairies threw magic dust for fun --
one vanished in the glitter, and then there was just one.

One Christmas fairy is living in my tree --
I hope she stays forever to keep me company.