I'm a New York city apartment dweller, so I've always known the challenges of small-space living. One of those challenges has always been the placement (and the storage) of Christmas decorations.

Last year I set up a new 7.5 ft tree by the living room window, one that required re-arranging the work desk and guinea pig cages, but that ultimately made the apt more spacious and enjoyable for part of my holiday celebration.

The annual Christmas party from last year was a big yeah! The food, the gift exchange, the drinks, the games, the movie and Pictionary, it was a fun night!