Undecorating

Okay, it's the day after Christmas and you're faced with the task of undecorating (is that even a word ??!!). If you're like me, you'll leave your decorations up at least until the end of the first week of January, but I know there are some die-hards who tackle the task the day after. Did you enjoy the task of decorating this year? Probably not if you had to buy new decorations because you couldn't find yours or you became so frustrated with trying to untangle or find your decorations. If you did not feel so jolly, here are a few ideas that will make life easier after the holiday season and for next year.

a. To protect your Christmas wreaths, wrap them in clear garbage bags and hang them (if you have the space in your storage area). If not, remember the idea of using those large gallon trashcans to layer them. For an added layer of protection and to prevent crushing, cut cardboard inserts a little smaller than the actual wreath and lay those between each one.

b. Use the paper towel tubes to wrap lights, garland and if you must, old ribbon. Cut a slit in the top and nestle the beginning of the string for easy unwrapping next year.

c. For delicate items, such as small ornaments or figurines, try using an old egg carton or a box with compartments. If you can't find one, you can make your own with a box and cardboard dividers.

Of course, I prefer the clear containers, but if you promise to make a list of the contents, boxes are acceptable.


d. If you decorate more than one room, make your life easier and label each box to the corresponding room. That way, next year it'll be easier to know which decorations are for your living room, dining room or outdoors.

e. Of course if you've kept the original packaging, you won't need these handy, dandy ideas, but if not…happy "undecorating".