Ribbons add flair and distinction. A colorful ribbon with flowing tails can give character to your arrangement and using holiday colos ir an added visual beauty. Using candlesticks on either side of your arrangement is also a Holiday decorating idea.

Mums last about 10 days if properly cared for, and carnations from 7-10 days. Roses stay fresh and beautiful for 5-7 days and lilies 7-10 days. In selecting your choice of flowers, think color, fragrance, and visual appeal. Use your creativity and imagination and bouquets and centerpieces can be made that will add appeal and color to your dining table.

Keep cut flowers out of direct sunlight and add fresh water daily. If some blossoms begin to lose their vitality, remove and insert others if you have them. If not, use greenery, berries, feathers, and pinecones to fill in gaps. Decorating your home with flowers and greenery brings life into each room and to your table. A true decorating delight and a wonderful enhancement to your enjoyment of Holiday Season. ENJOY! ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 November

It is unsigned note to a parent with a run-away child, not ready to come home yet, but has not forgotten where home and love still lives.

The stars up in heavens are little infants that were not strong enough to survive in our world, but shine bright and beautiful in heavens. There is a star for each person killed by war, famine, and disaster, and even though they did not survive down here, they will never fade as long as there is life and their stars shine for universe to behold.

While this legent may or may not be true is really not important. Its knowing that we can look up in heavens on Christmas Eve and wish upon a star - and say thank you to those we loves and lost and even to those we never knew. It is realizing that no life is ever extinguished without finding new brillance in life that we don't fully understand. Our cherished family and friends are for all eternity as is our memory of who they were and what they meant to us.

On Christmas Eve, wish upon a star and know tha someone out there is really listening and smiling down on you. ENJOY! ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 November