Caring for Your Christmas Tree
 When a Christmas tree is cut, over half of its weight is water. Here are some tips relating to the care of your Christmas tree:
1. Displaying trees in water in a traditional reservoir type stand is the most effective way of maintaining their freshness and minimizing needle loss problems.
2. Once home, place the tree in water as soon as possible. Before urwraping your tree you can also put it in a swimming pool to help it re-hydrate. As a general rule, stands should provide 1 quart of water per inch of stem diameter.
3. Use a stand that fits your tree. Avoid whittling the sides of the trunk down to fit a stand. The outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed.
4. Keep displayed trees away from sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process.
5. Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree.
6. Use of lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, will reduce drying of the tree.
7. Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.
With proper care, you can maintain the quality and beauty of your tree. Have a safe and fun holiday. |
How to Make a Bow: We all know that a great wrapping job can disguise a cheap present. This gorgeous bow will surely impress, even if your present is from a yard sale.
What you'll need:  A spool of ribbon at least one inch wide
1. Wrap a piece of ribbon around the package and tie a knot. This will anchor the bow onto the package.
2. Fold the ribbon accordion-style, holding the center with your fingers, to get four loops on either side. Cut the ribbon after you have the  four loops.
3. Cut a diagonal line in the middle of the accordion fold, on both sides.
 4. Place the accordion fold ribbon on the knot on the package and tie a knot around the accordion fold, tying them into the cut diagonal lines.
 5. Fluff up the loops. |
