The first thing we naturally think of when we begin to decorate for Christmas is the tree. Many people love fresh cut trees because you can't beat the wonderful fragrance, but there is also a great selection of artificial trees available that can last for years. After choosing the perfect location and stringing plenty of lights, it's time to decorate. Turn on some music and pop some popcorn with the family to make this a special time.

I love to bring things in from the outdoors. Stick in bunches of dried flowers like hydrangeas, roses, sunflowers, baby's breath, heather, etc. If you like artificial flowers or berries, they work well too. Try adding large pinecones and sprigs of real evergreen, lavender, or rosemary for a wonderful fragrance. You can also use large dolls, teddy bears, toy trucks, teacups or even seashells to fill a large tree. Just be sure you attach them using florist wire if they are heavy. Maybe you have a special collection that would work well on your tree for your own unique look.

There are several ways to use ribbon. You can make large bows to match your color scheme or use traditional Christmas colors. Using a large spool of wired ribbon, start at the top of the tree and wrap down and around the entire tree, bending the ribbon as you go to get the wavy look you want. If you don't have a star for the top, try making a very large bow with long streamers that hang down several feet. When you've finished with all your large decorations, it's time to fill in with the small collectables and special handmade children's ornaments. Every year we take a family Christmas photo and then frame and date it to hang on the tree. It's a blessing to be able to look back see how our family has grown and reflect on all the Christmas memories we've shared together.

Start your own holiday traditions this year. When the children were young we would hide a 'pickle' ornament on the tree and on Christmas Eve, whoever found the 'pickle' first would receive a little prize. We also always set small Santas at each place setting on Christmas Eve. Each contains a small gift and, after dinner, we all take turns opening them.