Christmas elf Gus Halandras works magic on his wreath making. You may know him as long-time Meeker resident, former mayor, Meeker Classic initiator, generous neighbor, and fun guy, but around Christmas, I think he is wreath creator extraordinaire.
When driving by his house, I see that by Thanksgiving, he has harvested a bounty of greens–pinion, pine, blue spruce and the all-important junipers with the colorful berries. They are all fresh bounty and ready to be woven together into a wreath.
Whatever the weather, Gus can be seen outside assembling his wreaths. This year, because it is so warm and dry, the outdoor work is easier, but we both agree the drought is getting increasingly problematic.
Soon to be 83-year-old Gus has been assembling wreaths for some 30 years. Initially, his incentive was creating “our style” meaning homemade and from the heart for the Halandras building. Now he also decorates his house, family members, and a few cherished friends, about 7-10 total each year.
These wreaths are huge, about 40 inches across, and weigh nearly 100 pounds. The greens are secured to metal trampoline rings that he has scrounged anywhere he can find them. Wire holds everything tightly in place along with forming a handle for hanging with an “s” hook.
Great care goes into varying the shades of color, creating what he calls a “tincture of color.” The junipers with their dark berries make the designs pop. Each wreath is a work of love that you can tell just by watching him work.
Meanwhile, Christine Halandras is also hard at work decorating indoors and creating a designer holiday festive interior. The couple help each other as needed to lift, haul, advise, or whatever. But clearly, she is the inside expert while he is the outdoors guru.
Christine also doesn’t really need an introduction — a master chef, gracious hostess, community generous spirit, and the person Gus describes as “the inspiration for his life,” she always looks lovely. Gus is happy that they both stay active, despite aging issues, that we quickly dismiss as a topic best left behind while celebrating the holidays.
I am fortunate to drive by their house often and enjoy these beautiful wreaths — a reminder of the old-fashioned, homemade decorations made with loving care that we can all enjoy. Merry Christmas and thanks, Gus and Christine.
By KAYE SULLIVAN | Special to the Herald Times
