Scott Citian makes White House ornament

Christmas at the White House is special indeed. While many Americans decorate their homes with flair and style, few homes can match the nation's house where our president lives when it comes to lavish holiday decorations.

Millions of Americans look forward each year to a televised tour of the White House during the holiday season. This year's tour with first lady Laura Bush showed an extravaganza of spectacular Christmas trees. The "Home for the Holidays" theme that unites this year's White House decorations is a special tribute to the homes of presidents past and present. Dollhouse-sized replicas of these homes are on display, and special ornaments on the trees also show these houses in miniature.

One area resident has played a special role in this year's White House decorations. Barb Lewis of Scott City was one of four Missourians who were invited to create one-of-a-kind ornaments. Lewis picked Mark Twain's childhood home. Lewis and her husband also had the honor and thrill of going to the White House as guests of the president and his wife to see the wonderful decorations.

Congratulations to Barb Lewis for her wonderful skills and artistry.