How to Decorate a Christmas Tree

So I just finished decorating an office for the Christmas holidays.  the office is a converted old home from 1910 - so we wanted to keep a very traditional look for the decorations to stay true to the feel of the home/office.

The main floor has 12 ft ceilings so we were able to use a 9 ft tree (typical height for trees is 7.5 ft - since most homes have 8 ft ceilings).  We went to Home Depot to purchase the tree (which was pre-lighted) and many of the decorations.  We went with a very warm colour concept of gold, red and chocolate brown.  We were able to find so much inspiration from the Martha Stewart Collection - where she has all the accents including bobbles, birds, beads and ribbon all in coordinating colours. 

I love a full looking tree so once we left the Home Depot, we headed out to HomeSense to look for some more ornaments for the tree.  I wanted lots of bling and I found it!  I found these amazing clip on red and gold, beaded butterflies - just stunning and oh, how they sparkle!  I also found some fabulous red apples with lots of sparkle and shine. I also found a very traditional brocade looking tree skirt.

Once we bought all the decorations that we could fit in the car, we set off to the office. We unloaded everything from the car and it was a bit overwhelming but when you have a plan - it makes it easier.

1. Start by setting up the tree and spreading the branches apart so the tree looks fuller

2. Set up the lights (test first for burnt out bulbs) or get a pre-lit tree (so easy!) and the tree skirt

3.  If using ribbon, start with that.  Start circling around the tree, start at the top.

4.  I like to start with the basic balls in various colours.  As you hang them up, be sure to step back now and then to make sure the colours and the balls are spread out evenly

5.  Move on to other decor items like clip on birds, or other hanging ornaments.

6.  Last the angel or start on the top (use a ladder, step stool or chair for some extra height)

For this office tree, I even purchased some beautiful boxes and placed them under the tree so it looked like there were gifts under the tree.

We also used a natural looking garland to wrap up the staircase.  Plus a stunning wreath in the same red, golds and chocolate brown colour theme on the front door. 

Back to School Style

Ok, so it's already August and I know that parents and kids are already getting ready for back to school, some are more excited than others, too.  When it comes to back to school we all think of clothing and learning materials but what about getting our workspaces ready for back to school?

There is so much to balance and to take care of once the kids are back at school.  Homework, field trip forms, fundraising, activities etc...don't let it bog you down - get ready for it and soon!

a--Start with where you want your child doing their homework - kitchen nook, bedroom, it doesn't matter but keep the area consistent and create a space for them to work and stay organized.  Keep in mind that younger children will need more hlp and supervision, so think about that when selecting a workspace location

b-- Get the kids involved.  If they are not buying into the idea (or not understanding) it's not going to work.  Explain the importance, take them shopping with you (and let them pick some items out themselves).  Organization is an important tool in all areas and all stages in life- so let them get involved from the beginning.  This is super important with teenagers - give them some responsibility otherwise they will fight you on it because it feels forced on them.

c--Have easy access to supplies and have them organized.  A jar or box for pencil crayons, a flat surface for a laptop or just where to work, hunting around for supplies or having to clear a workspace can just add to the stress of homework.

d-- Make sure the area is well lit.  It helps to stay focused plus it is much better for the eyes.

e--Keep it clutter-free.  Keep everything in it's place - bulletin board, containers, shelves etc...and have a bit of time every month or every two weeks to clear the space - extra papers can pile up very easily and add stress to your child's workspace

f-- Visual Aids.  a large wall mounted or desk top calendar is a great visual tool to stay organized.  Write appointments and activities on the calendar.  You can even have a family calendar and colour code each person in the family (mom-red, dad-blue, etc..) Write in the activities in the correponding colour.

g--Be somewhat flexible.  Some days your child may want to read their assigned reading in a more cozy chair or work on their big science project at the kitchen table - that's ok - regular homework should be done in the regular spot.

h-- TV off.  while your child is working at home, have the TV off.  A bit of music can be ok if the volume is low and it is something like ambient or classical - not too distracting.

i-- Have a scheduled time for homework.  We have such busy lives and sometimes homework just doesn't fit.  It is best to do it right after school, but if you can't find a time that works for you and your family.  After dinner or while dinner is being prepped just try not to do it too close to bedtime

j--Keep it fun!  This is a child's workspace so let it be fun and whimsical. 

What about the other areas of the home??  The front entry or the mudroom can also be a huge organization nightmare.  Sometime having a place for everything does the trick but don't forget to teach/train your family in how to use these pieces.  Installing hooks at the child's eye level is a great way to ensure they can put their backpacks away.  A basket is a great spot for children to put their shoes (indoor or clean shoes).  If you have the space, a cloth envelope, or labeled basket for children's field trip forms, fund raising info etc is a great idea - all too often they get left at the bottom of the backpack.  But no matter what strategies you pick for your family - get a plan before they head back to school and practice (yes, this sounds silly) but in order for a routine to take hold it can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 3 months to really set in, so don't get too frustrated and try not to lose your cool.  Keep at it, keep consistent and it will work.