Claudia Myer’s from Tuscumbia, Alabama taught art for five years in Deshler High School.  The artist, whose middle name is “special”, has always made every holiday special.  She always included her children in art projects, encouraging them to string popcorn garlands, make wreaths, flock mailboxes, mantles and entryways.  She brings the smells of outdoor inside using fresh pine boughs, shrubs and bushes from the yard.  Gifts are dressed up with sprigs of holly and red berries. 

This is a memory making tradition that her children have continued with their families. 
Soak greenery in water and spray it for bugs the day before you plan to use it.  Continue to spray mist greenery every day for longer life. 

A few hobby supplies are all anyone needs to bring the outdoors inside at Christmas.
Straw or grapevine wreaths, garden nippers, wire cutters, floral pins and wire, pipe cleaners and floral oasis foam are most of the supplies needed.  Spread a sheet beneath your project for fast and easy clean up. 

Once your projects are completed the locations you choose for them determines the final their final touches:

• Add a large bow and a few fresh apples to a mantel wreath
• For the table, leave the apples off and add a decorative candle and a hurricane lamp.
• For the entry door use the same wreath

You can also use candy dishes, bowls and other household containers to create accent pieces.  Add greenery and occasionally a purchased figure or other seasonal reminder or trinket. 

Former 1st Lady Barbara Bush purchased a Claudia Creation.  That was the business she opened following her teaching career.  A back injury necessitated her business retirement and she now creates for her church, weddings and family friends.  She also encourages others to start traditions such as these.