Santa takes one day off after Christmas is over before preparing for the next one. We are usually so preoccupied with the glitter and excitement of the season we don't realize it is a year long effort with not only the manufacture of presents, but also the logistics on how to transport them and not to mention the change in taste and behavior of children as they grow a little older. Wooden cho-choo trains just don't cut it like they used to. Regardless of age, it is as much in the anticipation of a gift as it is in the receipt, sometimes more.

When a garden center opens for the season, it is like Christmas for one segment of the population as is hunting or fishing for another. When Christmas in May arrives, Mother Nature is Santa. That which was dormant comes to life. Flowers replace twinkling lights, green grass replaces white snow. The spirit of the season is the same.

Well, Christmas is nearly here and there are a few cho-choo trains out there, but there are also many versions of electronic games envied by many, some soon to be left by the wayside when something better comes along. With plants, there is always something new. A flower opens, goes through its cycle, a new one takes its place, changing ever so slowly yet noticeable. Despite the news, we anticipate this May will be the best Christmas ever. Merry Christmas!