Store-bought ornaments are nice, and those made by master-crafter friends get a special place on the tree. But the all-star ornaments that we most look forward to unwrapping every year at Christmastime are those made by the kids. Sure, they may be slightly lopsided, and the color combos are not always in keeping with our decor, but they're hands down the most meaningful. Take an afternoon during the next couple of weeks and get crafty with your children, then share the joy by having them gift friends and family with their creations.
To decorate for Christmas this year, my daughter and I strung popcorn and hung it from the ceiling in front of some gold mirrors that I'd picked up here and there at thrift stores. We completed the look by tying bows on gold Christmas ornaments and hanging them from the ceiling with ribbons.
For those of you who begin decking the halls right after Thanksgiving, or sooner, by the time the New Year comes around, you may be ready to box up your ornaments and other festive knickknacks right away. Others may let the Santa hats and the angel statuettes linger a bit longer. How about you?
Interior stylist Selina Lake, author of 
