Maybe you've already bought the tree and set it up, maybe you haven't. Either way, these additional ideas for decorating at Christmas and for the Winter holiday can spice it up a bit and even restore some sense of meaning to it.

First off let's consider: What can replace the tree? Perhaps swags strung up above the windows and door or around fixtures, such as the ceiling light fixture (careful to keep them far enough away to avoid a fire!), the mantle, the TV set or entertainment center, etc... Swags are just pieces of branches from the tree, usually that have fallen off in a recent wind. Some have been know to creep around at night clipping off small pieces for themselves. Be careful not to get caught and don't forget to plant a tree as your penance next year.

Secondly, what to do with the swags? Well, hang them up with twine. As I said earlier, be thoughtful about where, how and the placement so you don't start a fire! Then you'll need to decorate them much as you would a tree. Add some garlands. Don't mix gold and silver though. Then hang some bulbs on them.

Here are more ideas, shown in the slide show to the right. You can place holly berries with leaves on top of a swaddled, white cloth on one of your tables in the living room or dining room. It is a beautiful attraction for any guest.

Next, you could place a small and rustic looking nativity set anywhere in the living room. I wouldn't place it in the kitchen, since the presence even of figurine animals may revolt some visitors. Try something interesting this year if you've gotten a bit bored with your run-of-the-mill set. Buy a Native American nativity. If you're Mormon you probably already have one ;-) [Watch out! Subtle joke at a low-flying altitude!]

You could hang candy canes practically anywhere in the house. Likeswise, gingerbread cookies glued to a Chirstmas card would draw attention, not to mention greedy little hands.

Place some sleigh bells on an often used door in the house. I wouldn't place them outside if you have a neighborhood where thing tend to disappear from yards. You'll smile every time you open or close that door as the bells give a few angels their wings.

You must frost the windows with wintry shapes! After All, what is Winter without Jack Frost?

Be creative and diverse! Everyone will love your festive home. You'll be the talk of your friends and family and you'll rest with a complete satisfaction of taking control of your decorations yourself.