Before you head out into the challenge of holiday family get-togethers, get to know some of the plants and animals you might meet during your holiday travels.
Mistletoe, a highly poisonous semi-parasite (aka poop twig).
Reindeer, aka caribou, not really designed to fly.
Poinsettia, which gets its great looks from a bacterial infection.
Holly, with only the female plants bearing red fruit.
Turtle doves, which are awkward, noisy, and full of love (just like Christmas).
Partridge in a pear tree. If you find one, help it get down out of the tree.
Charity Showcase
UNICEF, a United Nations group, fights for the survival and development of children around the world: no starving children, no exploited children, no children denied education, and no children deprived of clean water. Donate via the U.S. Fund for UNICEF via http://www.unicefusa.org or by calling 800-4UNICEF (800-486-4233).
Curator: John Kremer