Reminders

As we approach the holiday season, I want to remind you of a few things that often get lost in the shuffle.

1. Feed the Birds
Set out your feeders if you haven’t already, get yourself some birdseed, fill the feeders, and sit back to enjoy the show. This time is year, you’re likely to see chickadees, nuthatches, cardinals, blue jays, and woodpeckers. A few other birds may visit your yard, depending where you live.

If you start feeding them now, they’re more likely to know where to go in the dead of winter when you don’t want to go out – you’re really doing a little work now to set yourself up for some future entertainment.

2. Christmas Tree Care
If you have your Christmas tree already, make sure it stays fresh for as long as possible. Keep the water level high and use a tree preservative. I also like to put my tree out of direct sunlight.

If you don’t have your tree yet, remember that you should cut 4 inches off the bottom of the trunk to create a “fresh” cut, thus opening the capillaries up for better water absorption.

And, if you can, cut the tree yourself at a “pick-your-own” farm. It’s a great experience for the kids.

3. Remember Others
This time of year, more than any other, we need to remember to think of others who are less fortunate than ourselves. If you haven’t done so already, I urge you to pick up a toy or a few non-perishables and bring them to your local food bank or toy drive. You may never know who you helped, but you can rest assured knowing that some kid’s face lit up on Christmas morning because of you.

4. Relax
This is so important. The holiday season can be stressful. Visitors, dinner plans, gift exchanges at work – it can become overwhelming. Remember to relax. Take a few moments to look through your 2015 garden photos and remember the calming effect your garden had on you in the summer.

Don’t have photos of your own? Check out mine!

Have a great rest of your week and try to get all your shopping done early!