What about this?

The Christmas tree glimmers with joy and cheer,
and colorful stockings hang by very near.

The pantry’s filled with an indulgent load,
’cause the kids are home and in a snacking mode.

Snippets of red ribbon cover the floor,
but the greatest gifts given are those to the poor.

Now is the time to give thanks and reflect,
and be grateful for those you love and respect.

So spread peace and joy of which angels sing,
celebrate the meaning that true Christmas gifts bring!

Linnell Chang

#1 – It’s Not Too Late!
If you haven’t had time to mail off holiday greetings, it’s not too late. E-greetings don’t take a lot of time and have many benefits: they do not create landfill waste; they normally cost next-to-nothing; their delivery is almost instantaneous; they do not require postage; and as an added perk – you often receive a quick reply from your friends and loved ones! Just write your sentiments in a word document and press send – that’s all. If you include photos in your document, which can make the file too large for some emails, just convert it to a PDF before you send it. Words from the heart need no fancy trappings!

#2 – ‘Tis the Season to Be Careful With Fido and Kitty
Don’t let holiday gifts or treats send the four-legged members of your family to the emergency veterinary hospital. Chocolate, alcohol, macadamia nuts, and raisins are common ingredients found in holiday treats, but they are toxic to dogs and cats. Refresh your memory on potential food dangers to your pets by rereading my post, What Not to Feed Your Pet and make sure not to leave any of these items lying around!

#3 – Food Safety
After reviewing food safety for your pets, don’t neglect commonsense food safety tips for you and your family. When in doubt or for a quick seasonal review, go to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service Fact Sheets.

#4 – Winter Wonderland
Winter creates a wonderland of beauty. As soon as I saw these photographs of snowflakes, I knew I had to share them. The natural beauty and incredible intricacy of these crystalline formations highlight the amazing artistry of Mother Nature.

#5 – Peace
If there is to be peace in the world,
There must be peace in the nations.
If there is to be peace in the nations,
There must be peace in the cities.
If there is to be peace in the cities,
There must be peace between neighbors.
If there is to be peace between neighbors,
There must be peace in the home.
If there is to be peace in the home,
There must be peace in the heart.
Lao Tzu

May your holidays be filled with peace and joy!

Note: Inspirational photo made by using one of my own photos and iPiccy.