By MICHELE BESCHEN, Scripps Howard News Service

We kicked off the new year with a home-renovation project that has renewed my enthusiasm for the do-it-yourself life.

Even as someone who has been a DIY advocate and enthusiast all my life, I still get blown away by the fulfillment that comes from doing things myself when I'm knee-deep in a big project.

"Waste not, want not." That's what my grandfather used to say. I now find myself proudly saying the same thing, and believing in it and acting on it. As you begin the task of tearing down and packing away the holiday trimmings you have scattered about your home, here are a few resourceful ways to use some of those trimmings throughout the coming year:

The Tree

The evergreen wreath is a beautiful addition to most homes this time of year. Wreaths can be created in a multitude of ways using a plethora of materials and techniques, but when created out of evergreens, they're believed to represent the strength of life and healing.

The creative possibility that lies within a single branch is inspiring. It can be manipulated and transformed into some of the most beautiful, organic jewelry pieces. Working with branches doesn't cost anything, which makes people even more fearless with their efforts, because they're not as concerned with making costly mistakes.

Let's face it: When something breaks, our natural reaction is usually less than positive. We're upset, we're angry, we're disappointed. We can dwell on the breakage for moments that extend long beyond the "breakup." Or we can embrace the mishap as a creative opportunity -- the opportunity to pick up the pieces and turn them into something magical.

"It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge." -- Albert Einstein

"Man is most nearly himself when he achieves the seriousness of a child at play." -- Herodotus, Greek historian

Kids are home for the summer, camps are in full swing and parents and instructors are embracing as many inventive things as they can to keep their youngsters happy, busy and productively playful.

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!" -- Robin Williams

The windows are open wide, the perennials are back to greet us and we're staying outdoors later and later with every warming day. Let the outdoor entertaining begin with some ideas for budget-friendly, naturally good backyard bashes.

'Plant' to Party

"Many things grow in the garden that were never sown there." -- Thomas Fuller

Gardens can come in many shapes and sizes. They can be contained or sprawling, big or small.

Spring always delivers a mixed bag of creative opportunity.