Now that the leaves are off the maple trees, it's easy to spot Mistletoe growing on the branches.  You can see it all around the neighborhood.  This tree is in Lee's yard, but there's also lots in one of the trees in the meadow, across from the haybale snowman.  Look up, and if you see clumps of green in an otherwise bare tree, it's probably Mistletoe. 

 

I remember hearing stories about Nanny shooting Mistletoe out of the trees using a .22 rifle.  It could be a family legend, but I love that story.  

 

My favorite horticultural story is that the berries are sticky, and when birds eat the berries they have to clean their beaks of the sticky residue.  They scrape off the sticky mess on the branches of the trees, thus REPLANTING the seeds!  The ultimate gardeners!!

 

If you decide to bring Mistletoe into the house, be sure to remove the berries, as they are toxic to children and pets.  We love to hang a sprig in the doorway, to sneak a kiss whenever we walk under it.  Like we need an excuse.....

 

Remember to look up when you're out.  I hope you see some Mistletoe.  Think of it as a kiss from me.

 

 

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!