Around the house
* Make a list of holiday items that will be needed for the following year. Attach the list -- gift wrap, lights, ribbon, ornament hooks -- to the Christmas card address book.
* Remove indentations from carpet. Hold steam iron above area to allow steam to reach carpet. Brush pile with hand or an old hairbrush.
* When putting away strings of holiday lights, wind them around paper towel cylinders and attach a note indicating where they were used. Place tube in a plastic bag.
* Make a celebration out of putting away decorations. Play favorite music and put out snacks and beverages.
* Clean brass fireplace accessories and polish. Dust irons and tools as often as the furniture.
* Remove tea and coffee stains from tablecloths. Rinse cloth with cold water and rub salt into the stain until it disappears. Rinse and air dry.
In the garden
* Rotate houseplants regularly. If plants are turned one-quarter each time they are watered, they will grow straight. Otherwise they will bend toward the light.