Some people will take the tree down this weekend. As you do so, start making the list of what you'll need for next year: lights, tinsel, ornaments, garland, decorations. Pick up those items at the post-Christmas sales. Throw away broken lights and damaged decorations or those that look frowsy after years of use. Get out that new digital camera and memorialize the decorations: How did the tree look? What did you have for a centerpiece? How did you decorate the hall table? Those photos will make decorating easier next Christmas.
Treasures for next year's tree
Speaking of ornaments, the 15th annual Allison's Ornament & Collectible Show & Sale is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 18 at Holiday Inn Select, St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, 3535 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater. Admission is $4. Look for ornaments by Hallmark, Enesco, Barbie and many other familiar names.
From the TV to your bedroom
Now your bedroom can look like that of Leo and Grace on NBC's Will & Grace. The set designers chose Swiss linens in a rich red shade called brique from the Bonjour sateen collection. The 300-thread-count linens were used for bedsheets and the matching curtains behind the bed. Pillow shams and a quilted coverlet are from Bonjour as well. The custom-made linens start at $90 for a standard sham and $225 for a full fitted sheet. Visit www.bonswit.com
An antique lover's dream
Another one for the new calendars: The 37th annual Winter Antiques Show & Sale is Jan. 16-18 at the Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 16 and 17 and noon-5 p.m. Jan. 18. Tickets: $5 at the door. More than 60 dealers will show furniture, sterling, glass, jewelry, porcelain, paintings, rugs, maps and prints, lamps, garden and architectural ornamentation, and much more.
