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While many of us collect Christmas decorations over the years that become part of our family tradition, most of us have at least some items that are looking rather tired. If you fall into that category, it's time for an update.

As you gather all your Christmas decorations to begin preparing for the season, examine what you have. Could some of your items use a little freshening up? I know some of mine certainly could. It's easy and fun to do.

Inject new color
This season's colors are a mix of jewel tones, more natural green tones and neutrals. A little paint goes a long way toward giving your Christmas decorations a richer, fresher feel. Paint red items a deep burgundy or purple, or exchange typical greens for sage. Sage looks lovely next to metallic finishes, like silver and gold, as well as neutrals including black. In England blank and hot pink are combined to achieve an interesting retro-style look.

Use old items in new ways
Find different ways to use things your already have or combine items with things that normally stand alone or are used in other areas. One example is turning seldom-used glassware or mismatched bar glasses into a table display. Select different sized, shaped or colored glasses and arrange them on a table or buffet. Place tea candles or small votives inside and light them. This creates a charming effect, for just the price of new candles. Votives are very inexpensive and you can find them almost anywhere in a variety of scents and colors. It is a good idea to choose a sinlge scent to avoid an overpowering fragrance. You can also intertwine pine or metallic garlands around the stems of the glasses for added drama.