It's a time when many of us are moved to enrich our lives by adding to the joy or comfort of others. And, while most of us are so busy that we can't imagine adding one more chore to our lives, we try to do it all. We make the Christmas cookies, we scour the stores for the perfect gifts, we visit a sick friend, we decorate our homes and we remember family. Every year I vow to simplify my holiday rituals, but I always end up getting into the spirit of things, trying out new ideas for making gifts and decorations. Everything in the book, from setting a holiday table to festooning the banister with a handmade garland, can be achieved with minimal effort.
Nothing takes an inordinate amount of time or requires any special talent.
In fact, my favorite decorations come from putting ordinary things together or simply coming up with a new way to do the familiar. My projects are stress-free and that's what I wish for everyone on my holiday list. The following are a few of my quick and easy ideas for making your home festive without spending a lot of time or effort doing it. The front door offers an opportunity to give an extra-warm welcome to guests during the holidays. Fill a bicycle basket with evergreens and attach to the front door.