I like a very full, ornate tree, with plenty of sparkle. I have large bows and a train that runs through the top of he tree, with puffing smoke and a bright lint and whistle. I like the tree to take on the whole meaning of Christmas and I overload it with memories and moments of Christmases past. I also have Christmas elves in mine. They are about knee high and are dressed in rich burgundy and green traditional costumes, with lots of gold embelishmens. They have porcelain faces and there are enough climbing amongst on perched on branches to look real for my daughters amazement! They add to the whimsical and imagination of little ones.

I always understood decorations should come down on Epiphany (6 Jan). I still have a couple of things to put away today. I love the decorations and the decorating but also really like that clean tidy feeling in January when you pack it all away. We took our LED icicle lights camping (we have a battery pack thing) when our teenage twin girls wanted a camping birthday sleep over with their friends, made for a very pretty birthday camp site and did not attract insects which was a definite bonus

I would not be inclined to plant a Murraya for your hedge. I have a Murraya hedge and am forever clipping it. The branches also become a bit thick to trim. The Indian Hawthorne pictured is in my opinion a more suitable plant. It flowers most of the year and is easy to keep in shape or can be left to grow naturally. It comes in whit or different shades of pink. The pink variety is a slower grower therefore less clipping. Go and have a look at the nursery to see if you like the foliage and flowers. I agree with the comment, not to try to keep the pines which somebody else has planted. This is your home now and you have the opportunity to design the garden. Good luck with your new garden. Jan

Beautiful! The tree has been honoured and is now a useable space.