Christmas is the time of year that we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It is his birthday and somehow we have gotten around to giving gifts to our children, parents, friends, and relatives. The question is have we turned Christmas into a Pagan Holiday? Some religions do not celebrate Christmas with gifts, because it was the day Jesus was born. We know that Jesus was born sometime in September, around one of the Jewish Holidays. But it was agreed that December 25, would be the celebrated date.

The decorations and bright lights are always cheerful to everyone and it does lift our spirits. Some of the foreign countries do not celebrate Christmas, like the Muslims, Hindu, or Chinese.   However, here in the US most of the religions do celebrate Christmas.

Lets take a look at what kind of tree we need to decorate. If you get a real pine you have to take it down right after Christmas, because of the drying of the needles. That is the reason artificial trees are very popular, you can keep them after Christmas, into January.

I have a red one with sprayed white snow, and red berries on the ends, and it is beautiful. I always put one outside that is artificial with bulbs and ribbons and artificial apples. I have lanterns around it , and at night my neighbors love seeing my decorations.

You can make your own decorations or purchase them from stores. Some stores sell trees that are already decorated; and all you have to do is put it in the room that is well suited. Psychologically speaking the colored lights are an anti-depressant and serve to cheer you up. Try to have a tree this year. A few years ago when I had a larger home, I decorated a tree with decorations from various countries. When I entertained they were a conversation piece. If you are going to entertain with a varied group, try to decorate with various themes. Italy was one of my manger scenes. I had one for Holland with the dutch shoes and carved bulbs. Do some research and see what you can come up with.  Dare to be different!

You need to decorate for the company you plan to entertain. If you want to be a stand out, use various decorations, representing various countries or animated cartoons like Donald Duck, etc. Use your imagination. Don't forget to decorate with Christmas wreaths, hang them outside and at your fireplace, or doors in the house.

Get your china out for the table setting, and table cloth, with napkins. I use a red and white cloth for the holidays. Make the holiday special and see what effects it will have on your family!