Decorating feels magical in memory and like a project in reality. This sheet breaks December decorating into small dated jobs, with a supplies sweep first and tree care built in so the greenery lasts through the season instead of shedding by the second week.
One project per line. Small projects get done; one giant 'decorate the house' line does not.
| Project | Supplies needed | Target date | Done |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tree: buy or bring up, stand, lights first, then garlands and ornaments | |||
| Tree skirt and the present staging spot | |||
| Mantel or main shelf display | |||
| Entry or porch: wreath, planters or lanterns | |||
| Outdoor lights along the roofline or railing | |||
| Dining table centerpiece and candles | |||
| Stair garland or hallway garland | |||
| Kids' room decorations (theirs to place) | |||
| Timer or smart plugs set for all light strands | |||
| Box and label everything by zone when it comes down |
Two minutes a day keeps the tree drinking and the strands safe.
| Check | How often | Done |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh-cut the trunk base before the stand goes on | Once, at setup | |
| Water the stand; a thirsty tree drinks more than you expect | Daily | |
| Check the water level never drops below the trunk cut | Daily | |
| Inspect light strands for frayed wires, cracked sockets and dead bulbs | Before hanging | |
| No more than the rated number of strands connected end to end | Before hanging | |
| Turn tree and outdoor lights off overnight or set a timer | Nightly | |
| Real flames kept away from greenery, curtains and paper | Whenever lit | |
| Smoke and CO alarm test before the decor goes up | Once |
Fam keeps checklists, planners and trackers for every room of family life in one simple place.
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