Author: pat frederick

Best Christmas Lights in Every State Part 2

Montana — Billings Christmas Lights in Billings, MT

Throughout Billings, Montana, you’ll find residential home after residential home lit to Christmastime perfection. Featuring more than 35 glowing locations throughout the drive, the town includes everything from residential homes and lanes to landmark houses. Bring along some hot cocoa and snacks and enjoy the view!

Nebraska — Omaha Holiday Lights Festival in Omaha, NE

If you live in the Cornhusker State, check out the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival in Omaha this holiday season. Running from November 24 until January 2, the Omaha Holiday Lights Festival lights up 40 blocks of downtown Omaha with twinkling, glowing lights, running from 10th to 13th Streets and from Farnam to Jackson Streets. Come New Year’s, the tradition continues, with the Holiday Lights Festival also setting off fireworks. Their Shine the Light on Hunger campaign has goals to raise the equivalent of three million meals this year. Go out and show your support!

Nevada — Glittering Lights in Las Vegas, NV

From the safety, warmth, and comfort of your car, Nevadans can celebrate the season by driving through Glittering Lights in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Tickets for the drive-thru start at $29 for weekdays and $39 for any day. You can also purchase a season ticket for $129.

New Hampshire — La Salette Christmas Festival of Lights in Enfield, NH

This year, the annual Christmas lights display at the Shrine of Our Lady La Salette in Enfield, New Hampshire isn’t just offering light; it’s offering hope during a dark time. The website reads, “Despite the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, natural disasters, climate change, and political turmoil this year’s festival will proclaim ‘Jesus Christ-the living light.’ Generations of men and women have all declared that, even in times of darkness, his “living light” is still shining ahead of us all”. As such, the Shrine of Our Lady La Salette named this year’s display “Christ: Living Light.” Running from November 24 until January 1 the La Salette Christmas Festival of Lights is one of the oldest light displays throughout the Granite State. Set on 20 acres of hillside, the La Salette Christmas Festival of Lights features nativity scenes, thousands of multi-colored lights, and hundreds of decorations.

New Jersey — Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township, NJ

In the quaint Egg Harbor Township of New Jersey, you’ll find Storybook Land—a timeless, enchanting children’s park that has been around since 1995. Open from November 19 to December 30, Storybook Land is now open for the holiday season, offering the Christmas Fantasy with Lights event. Santa turns the park’s thousands of lights every night at 5 o’clock through December 23.

New Mexico — River of Lights in Alburquerque, NM

Throughout the U.S., there is no Christmas lights display quite like the River of Lights in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Running from November 26 through December 30, this event will host over 700 light displays, animated and 3D sculptures and millions of twinkling lights! Purchase a timed ticket starting at $14 Mondays through Thursdays and $17 Fridays through Sundays.

New York — The Shops at Hudson Yards in Manhattan, NY

In New York, New York, everyone tends to flock to the illuminated angels at the Channel Gardens at Rockefeller Center because they’re free to visit (of course, if you want to skate underneath the tree at The Rink at Rockefeller Center, that’ll cost you about $33, not including rentals). But if you want to beat the crowds and escape the weather, check out The Shops at Hudson Yards instead.

Outside of The Shops, the lights display continues with over 2 million twinkling lights across The Plaza, Edge, and Vessel, as well as almost 1,000 decorated trees across The Plaza.

Other honorable mentions throughout Manhattan include visiting the Saks Fifth Avenue outdoor light display and taking a quick trip on the D train to Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

North Carolina— The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC

In Asheville, NC, there’s the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate—America’s largest home, which was built back in 1895. It’s worth visiting all year round solely for its historical significance, but come the holiday season, it’s all the more magical. From November 4 to January 7, visitors can explore the estate’s luminary-lit pathways, glowing candles reflected in thousands of ornaments and warm, flickering fireplaces starting at $119 per ticket.

North Dakota — Spring Lake Park Holiday Lights Drive in Spring Lake Park, ND

The Spring Lake Park Holiday Lights Drive in North Dakota is one of the most unique light displays there is. After all, the Holiday Lights Drive has hosted several different themed nights in the past—from LEGO Night and Snoopy Gives Back to Dinosaur Night and the Grinch Gives Back Night. This year should prove just as unique with different craft nights!

Ohio — Clifton Mill in Clifton, OH

The Historic Clifton Mill, one of America’s largest water-powered grist mills, has been a historical staple of Clifton, OH since 1802. Every holiday season, the Clifton Mill goes all out by transforming into a Christmas village featuring a Santa Claus Museum, a vintage toy collection, and lots and lots of lights.

Oklahoma

Apparently, Parade didn’t like Oklahoma…there was no information for Oklahoma.

Oregon — Peacock Lane in Portland, Oregon

One of Oregon’s most beloved Christmas lights displays is Peacock Lane in Portland, OR. From December 15 to 24 each home on Peacock Lane is decorated in its own style and personality for the holiday season. You can either drive through this display, but be prepared to wait your turn, or you can walk along the sidewalks. December 15, 16 and 17 will be designated pedestrian-only nights this year and the cocoa booth is returning for 2022. Each night from December 15 through 24 cups of cocoa and hot cider are free! (While supplies last.)

Pennsylvania — Koziar’s Christmas Village in Bernville, PA

If ever there was a place that really, truly felt like it could be the real North Pole, it’s certainly Koziar’s Christmas Village in Bernville, PA. Nestled in the Pennsylvanian countryside, Koziar’s appears as a quaint and festive village lit up by more than 1 million lights glowing in the night. In town, you’ll find a toy workshop, a bakery, and a post office that only goes back and forth to Santa’s address. Tickets start at $10 for kids, $12 for people ages 11+, and children 3 years old and under can attend for free.

Rhode Island — Bristol Christmas Festival in Bristol, RI

Christmas in Bristol, Rhode Island is unlike any other place… except maybe the North Pole! Light displays as part of the Bristol Christmas Festival and Grand Illumination event have been a part of Bristol since 1987. Throughout town, buildings, churches, trees, and residential homes are lit up in celebration of the season. This year, the Grand Illumination event kicks off on December 3 and is free for everyone who attends. The festival’s annual Christmas Story Time event is going virtual on December 16.

South Carolina — Holiday Festival of Lights in Charleston, SC

At James Island County Park’s Holiday Festival of Lights in Charleston, SC, you’ll drive through three miles of a gorgeous Christmas lights display. The festival features all kinds of lights and animatronics and even has a $3 train ride that will allow you to take it all in. The festival runs nightly from now until December 31. For an additional experience, you can also book a visit with Santa Claus himself and walk away with a 5×7 souvenir photo.

South Dakota — Christmas Nights of Light in Rapid City, SD

South Dakota may be known as the home of Mount Rushmore, but there’s more to the Coyote State than just breathtaking views of the Black Hills. Especially during Christmastime. Come December, the park at Storybrook Island in Rapid City, SD, turns into a winter wonderland as part of the city’s Christmas Nights of Light event. Kids will love the storybook characters walking around, drinking cocoa or cider, and looking at all the charming lights. Admission is $4 per person and runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until December 31.

Tennessee — Cheekwood Estates & Gardens in Nashville, TN

The Holiday LIGHTS event at Cheekwood Estates & Gardens in Nashville was voted the best local event and festival in 2019. This year is no different! Still a beloved light display by plenty of locals, Cheekwood Estates & Gardens offers a one-mile walking path of glowing lights against a backdrop of the gardens. Kids and adults alike will enjoy taking pictures by the iconic poinsettia tree and indulging in the s’more and bar stations. The Holiday LIGHTS event runs from November 19 until January 8.

Texas — Austin’s Trail of Lights in Austin, TX

The Lonestar State is home to Austin’s Trail of Lights in Austin, TX—a literal trail of lights that features more than 70 Christmas-themed displays, two million lights, an artisans marketplace, and some of the city’s most beloved food trucks. Pricing varies depending on the date you choose to go, and admission is free on certain dates.

Utah — Christmas in Color in South Jordan, UT

This year, Utah’s Christmas in Color drive-through display has adapted to the times, ultimately becoming the Socially Safe Drive-Thru Animated Light Show! Millions of lights twinkle against the backdrop of the Salt Lake County Equestrian Park as you drive by giant candy canes, through lit-up tunnels, and cruise past dancing snowflakes synchronized to the holiday music.

Vermont — Wassail 2020 in Woodstock, VT

Wassail Weekend boasts the historic homes and local shops throughout Woodstock, VT that will be spectacularly lit for the season. The weekend events will be all day December 9 through 11. This calendar highlights all events happening during Wassail Weekend this year. Get ready to enjoy the craft fair, tree lightings and carriage rides at this year’s Woodstock festival.

Virginia — Tacky Light Tour in Richmond, VA

If you’re nearby in Richmond, VA, then you and your family will love stopping by the city’s Tacky Light Tour. A residential light display that acts as a self-guided tour that you can drive through in nearby neighborhoods, you’ll see some of the gaudiest decorations homes have to offer. Think the movie Deck the Halls, but IRL.

Washington — The Lights of Christmas in Stanwood, WA

The Lights of Christmas festival features more than one million lights in its Pacific Northwest display. There will be a light tunnel, the Cascade Splendor Mountain scene and even Santa and his reindeer! Tickets start at $27 and the event will run on select dates from November 25 to December 31.

West Virginia — Oglebay in Wheeling, WV

Light tunnels, a meteor shower of lights and wintry scenes galore! That’s what you’ll find at Oglebay’s Winter Festival of Lights in Wheeling, West Virginia. Running from now until January 8, Oglebay’s Winter Festival of Lights: Sounds of the Season is celebrating this holiday season with its annual six-mile drive over 300 acres. There are 90 lighted scenes throughout Oglebay’s Winter Festival of Lights, utilizing more than 1 million energy-efficient LED lights.

Wisconsin — Country Christmas in Pewaukee, WI

For the largest outdoor drive-through Christmas light display in all of Wisconsin, be sure to check out County Christmas from now until January 1. With several different locations to explore—from the Country Christmas Trail featuring mile-long drive-through animated figurines and holiday scenes to the Christmas Village—tickets start at $25 and range to $45 depending on vehicle type. There are also designated walking nights as well as nights that offer wagon rides!

Wyoming — Street Railway Trolley in Cheyenne, WY

Ride in festive Christmas style while you take your Christmas lights display tour this year in Wyoming. Board the Street Railway Trolley in Cheyenne and then be transported throughout the neighborhood to check out some of the coolest local lights—available every night from Dec. 9 to Jan. 1. It’s $15 a ticket for adults, $7.50 for children, and each ticket should be purchased in advance.

SOURCE: PARADE

Stephanie Osmanski

December 22, 2022

50 Best Christmas Light Displays State by State

Best Christmas Lights in Every State Part 1

I love Christmas light displays!  I found an article on yahoo (of all places) for the best lighting displays in each state.  I included the link to the article at the bottom of the article so you can see their links and pictures (which I couldn’t copy here.) The pictures I did find to post, listed only the state in most cases, so don’t assume the picture matches the reference in the article.

From PARADE:

Here are the 50 best Christmas light displays in the U.S., state by state.

There is something about twinkling lights, hot cocoa in hand and Christmas music playing, right? It evokes that warm holiday feeling everyone loves. That’s why holiday light shows and holiday light displays are so special to children and adults—it’s a chance for everyone to pause and look at the magic all around.

And luckily, every state has a holiday light show they are known for (and usually, more than one!). We rounded up the best Christmas and holiday light shows in every state so you can plan your holiday tradition-making now.

Here are the 50 best Christmas light displays in the U.S., state by state.

Alabama — Huntsville Botanical Garden in Huntsville, AL

The Galaxy of Lights Festival at the Huntsville Botanical Garden in Huntsville, Alabama is a must-visit if you live in the Heart of Dixie. Starting over 25 years ago, the Huntsville Botanical Garden Christmas lights display now spans 2.5 miles and features classic holiday themes, characters, and even scenes from nature. It’s open from November 11 to January 1, can be driven or walked, (even with your dog some nights!) and tickets start at $16 for the public and $13 for members if pre-purchased. Tickets at the gate start at $25 for the public and $20 for members.

Alaska — Alaska Botanical Gardens in Anchorage, AK

If you live near Anchorage, Alaska, you know that Alaska Botanical Gardens is worth visiting at any time of the year. But particularly during the holiday season, Alaska Botanical Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland worthy of the North Pole itself. You’ll have plenty of time to experience this magic as the event begins November 27 and lasts all the way through January 21! Brighter Winter Nights Tickets start at $10 for members ages 7+ and kids 6 years old and under are free.

Arizona — Glendale Glitters in Glendale, AZ

With a name like Glendale Glitters, how could you not want to attend?! Glendale Glitters is home to the largest free light display—featuring 1.6 million LED lights—in the state, and runs from November 21 until January 11. This year marks the 27th anniversary of Glendale Glitters and the display illuminates 16 blocks of the town’s Historic Downtown District.

Arkansas — Lights of the Ozarks in Fayetteville, AR 

Beginning the Friday before Thanksgiving, the holiday celebration of lights in Fayetteville illuminates the Historic Square every night from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. The initial Lighting Night kicks off at 6 p.m. and is followed by a holiday parade. There are also plenty of vendors set up on the Square each night during the Lights of the Ozarks featuring winter treats, seasonal activities, holiday music and more. Lights of the Ozarks is a free public display and will run from November 18 to January 1.

California — Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn in Los Angeles, CA

Every Christmas season, Californians love visiting residential light displays such as El Segundo’s Candy Cane Lane or LA Zoo Lights. While those are both popular attractions, maybe you’d like to head to a different event in hopes of experiencing something new this year. Look no further than The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa in LA and witness the castle’s gorgeous interior décor. This year’s 30th annual lighting festival will take place from November 25 through January 6.

Colorado — Denver Botanic Gardens in Denver, CO

Blossoms of Light is the Denver Botanic Gardens’ annual holiday lights event that has been held for three decades. Participants walk through the Blossoms of Light pathway and can stop by the Hive Garden Bistro for hot cocoa and other holiday treats. This event runs from November 18 to January 7, (closed November 24 and December 25) and tickets start at $24 for non-members, $21 for members, and each ticket is limited to a 30-minute time slot.

Connecticut — Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce, CT

Connecticut is home to one of the nation’s most unique light displays. In fact, it’s more of an experience than a display. Lake Compounce is an amusement park turned winter wonderland during the holidays! This year will be their longest running season yet, opening every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, November 19 through December 24 and Monday through Saturday December 26 through 31. Admission starts at $39.99 for adults but you can save some money if you buy online. There are plenty of twinkling lights to enjoy as well as fun festive activities!

Delaware — Historic Odessa Candlelit Tours in Odessa, DE

Throughout the First State, Christmas light displays are abundant and in fact, Frampton Realty has put together an amazing stop-by-stop road trip for light-lookers that spans all of Delaware. However, if you want to hone in on just one area, consider taking a Historic Odessa Candlelit Tour in the 18th-century hamlet of Odessa, DE. Tours span throughout the month of December on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and you must have a reservation. On the tour, you’ll walk past Historic landmarks and buildings like the National Historic Register Wilson Warner House (c. 1769), National Historic Landmark Corbit-Sharp House (c. 1774), the Stone Barn (c.1812), and of course, bear witness to a plethora of beautiful light displays.

Florida — Night of Lights in St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine, Florida is a Historic area and as most historic areas tend to do, offers a one-of-a-kind light display each year during Christmastime. Known for its famous white light display along 20 blocks of Historic buildings, Night of Lights is celebrating its 29th year in 2022. Pro tip: The event is best witnessed, according to the website, from either the Plaza de la Constitución or The Bridge of Lions and will be open each evening from November 19 to January 31.

Georgia — Fantasy in Lights in Pine Mountain, GA

Did you know that Georgia is home to one of the top 10 light displays in the world? Experience the wonder of one of the world’s most top-rated light displays at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, which claims to feature 10 million twinkling lights across 2500 acres. This year, Fantasy in Lights is introducing a new scene called the Celebration Lake which will feature a floating combination of 30 dancing trees in honor of the event’s 30th year. Tickets range from $15 to $39.95 depending on the night you choose, and while you’re there, don’t forget to hop on the Jolly Trolley!

Hawaii — Honolulu City Lights in Honolulu, HI

Honolulu City Lights—put on by Honolulu’s city hall Honolulu Hale—usually kicks off with an electric light parade and the annual lighting of the town’s Christmas tree. This year, Honolulu City Lights is inviting guests to partake in a free milk and cookies night on December 17 for its 20th year.

Idaho — Winter Wonderland Festival in Caldwell, ID

The Winter Wonderland Festival takes place at the Indian Creek Plaza every year in Caldwell, Idaho and features all kinds of festive activities. Downtown Caldwell is lit with over a million lights and will stay lit from November 19 to January 9.

Illinois — Christkindlmarket in Chicago, IL

Chicago, Illinois is home to many various Christmas light displays, but an annual favorite has to be Christkindlmarket. An authentic and traditional German-style holiday market, Christkindlmarket will be open to the public from November 18 to December 24. Always admission free, the Christkindlmarket boasts plenty of vendors that will appeal to all the senses! From seasonal treats to holiday music and of course twinkling lights, this festival should definitely be on your to-visit list this year.

Indiana — Santa Claus, IN

In a town aptly named Santa Claus, you’ll find Indiana’s 1.2-mile-long Christmas LED-light display called Shining Story of Rudolph at Lake Rudolph Campground. The drive-through display runs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night from November 25 to December 4 and every night December 9 through 26 (but is closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).

Iowa — Adventureland Resorts in Altoona, IA

In Altoona, Iowa, you’ll find the Jolly Holiday Lights at Adventureland Resorts. Open from November 25 through January 1, the Jolly Holiday Lights display features 2.5 miles of stunning lights to feast your eyes on. What’s more, 100 percent of the admission fee goes to Make-A-Wish Iowa, which sponsors the event annually. To date, they have funded over 1000 wishes! The event is also offering virtual meetings with Santa Claus as well.

Kansas — The Lights at Ability Point in Wichita, KA

In Sedgwick County, Kansas, The Lights at Ability Point is one of the most unique Christmas light displays throughout the Sunflower State. While the drive-through light display, featuring more than 1.5 million glittering lights, offers admission by donation on Mondays, a $10 fee is required to visit The Lights every other night from November 24 until December 28.

Kentucky — Lights Under Louisville in Louisville, KY

 

From now until January 1, the Lights Under Louisville Christmas light display is open for business in Louisville, Kentucky. One ticket for a passenger vehicle costs $34.99 and the event starts at the Louisville Mega Cavern. Known as the world’s only underground lights show, the tour rides along 17 miles of lit-up underground passageways throughout the city.

Louisiana — Holiday Trail of Lights in Natchitoches, LA

If you’ve spent more than five minutes in the state known for its Mardi Gras, then you know that Louisiana is big on all celebrations. Christmas, of course, is no exception. The Holiday Trail of Lights is Louisiana’s statewide light display with several towns included on the trail. However, if you’re going to visit just one, check out Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory.  You’ll find 300,000 lights and more than 100 set pieces on display in Natchitoches alone. This year is the Holiday Trail of Lights’ 96th, so head out and celebrate!

Maine — Coastal Maine Botanical Garden in Boothbay, ME

Every year, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens hosts Gardens Aglow in the Boothbay peninsula of Maine. This year the event will be more traditional as they reinstate the walking tour. Tickets start at $18 for non-members, $14 for members, and the event runs from now until December 31.

Maryland — 34th Street in Hampden, MD

Nearby Baltimore, 34th Street in Hampden, Maryland—also known as Christmas Street—is known for its holiday decorations come December. The lights will be shining brightly this year from November 26 to New Year’s Day and there will be plenty of food, drinks and shopping to enjoy!

Massachusetts — Zoolights at Stone Zoo in Stoneham, MA

Walk along the zoo’s 26 acres under lighted trees and see animals such as black bears, arctic foxes, lynx and reindeer. On certain nights you may even catch a glimpse of Mrs. Claus! Zoolights will be open from November 18 through January 8, (closed November 24 and December 25) and general admission for non-members starts at $12.95.

Michigan — The Big Bright Light Show in Rochester, MI

The Big Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester, Michigan, is quite a sight. From now until January 3, as you walk through the downtown area, you’ll bear witness to every single building covered in more than 1 million lights in rainbow order. The result? Downtown Rochester transforms into a holiday-themed rainbow.

Minnesota — Bentleyville Tour of Lights in Canal Park, MN

The goal of Bentleyville’s Tour of Lights is to bring people together during the holiday season. The free, walk-through light display features more than 5 million lights and 20 acres of the park to walk through, as well as free hot cocoa and treats. Parking for the event is $10 per car.

Mississippi — Victorian Christmas Festival in Canton, MS

With more than 100,000 lights glowing from the town’s historic buildings, the Courthouse Square carousel, a 4-story tree, an 18-foot walk-through gift box and Rudolph’s playground, Canton transforms itself into an authentic Christmas village each December. Also, be sure to check out the town’s Animation Museums for an animated Polar Express train and stop by Santa’s Workshop to play “I Spy” and look for the elves’ top 10 favorite toys!

Missouri — Silver Dollar City in Branson, MO

While visiting Silver Dollar City in Branson, you’ll stumble upon one of the best holiday light displays in the state. From November 5 to December 30, An Old Time Christmas is a light spectacular at the center of Silver Dollar City. Featuring 6.5 million twinkling lights, animations, and other larger-than-life displays, the whole light show spans nine stories into the sky above.

SOURCE: PARADE

Stephanie Osmanski

December 22, 2022

50 Best Christmas Light Displays State by State

Jaguarundi

They are carnivores, hunting small animals such as birds, mammals, and reptiles.

They are primarily terrestrial, preferring to hunt from the ground, however they are both excellent climbers and swimmers.

They are usually solitary, although are sometimes found in pairs. They have litters of up to 4 kittens.

Interesting Jaguarundi Facts

They are about twice as big as a house cat

This makes them pretty big, but this is still small compared to the cougars or jaguars which also inhabit the region.

They are similar in appearance to weasels and otters

They have elongated bodies, short legs, a long tail, and small squished faces.

They are very shy

You will struggle to see these cats in the wild as they are shy and reclusive. This partly explains why so little is known about them.

They are usually solitary

They have sometimes been found in pairs, but this is likely mothers and older offspring or mating pairs.

Their closest relative is the cougar

However, cougars are much bigger than the medium-size jaguarundi.

The oldest fossil of a jaguarundi dates to 0.5 million years ago

This fossil is from the late Pleistocene era and was found in Brazil.

They have a big range

They can be found all the way from Argentina to Mexico.

They are active during the day

This is a little unusual for wild cats. They seem to prefer hunting in the mornings, which may be because it helps them avoid other wild cats.

They are terrestrial

While other wild cats inhabiting forests may prefer to stick to the trees, these cats hunt primarily on the ground. However, they are also proficient climbers.

They can swim across rivers

These cats often inhabit rainforests, where they will swim across medium-sized rivers.

They can leap as high as 2m into the air

They do this when hunting birds.

They are vocal

They have been recorded making 13 different calls, including screaming, purring, whistling, and yapping.

They have a tendency to steal chickens

They are often found eating domestic chickens, leading to conflict with farmers.

They have litters of up to 4 kittens

These kittens live in dens constructed in dense undergrowth.

SOURCE: FACTANIMAL

Mums

Hardy mums are fast-growing and will reach their full height within their first year, with the plant filling out a little more each subsequent year. Hardy mums set buds once the nights become longer and flower in the fall for up to eight weeks. The leaves and flowers of hardy mums are mildly toxic to humans as well as to dogs, cats, and horses.

Hardy Mum Care

Here are the main care requirements to keep mums growing healthy.

Plant mums in a site that’s protected from damaging strong winds.

Provide good air circulation around the plants to reduce fungal infections.

Pinch plants on or around Memorial Day and Fourth of July for best performance.

Water weekly and feed regularly.

Light

Hardy mums prefer to grow in full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. However, in the warmer parts of their growing zones, they can benefit from some afternoon shade. The flowers are photoperiodic, meaning they bloom in response to the shorter days and longer nights experienced (in the northern hemisphere) in the late summer and fall. Therefore, don’t plant them near street lights or night lights; artificial lighting wreaks havoc with their flowering cycle.

Soil

These plants grow best in organically rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. Sharp drainage is a must, as soil that remains wet for too long can cause root rot.

Water

Mums like consistent moisture but they do not tolerate soggy soil. Water whenever the soil dries out about 1 or 2 inches down. In warmer weather and once the plant is large and in bloom, more frequent waterings will likely be necessary. About 1 inch of water per week is considered a minimum.

Temperature and Humidity

Most garden mums can handle temperatures up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with sufficient water and some shade. Most hardy mums continue blooming as temperatures dip down as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and the roots of most varieties can survive winter soil temperatures down to less than zero degrees Fahrenheit. However, it’s best to choose varieties bred to thrive in your region’s particular conditions.

A moderate humidity level is ideal for these plants. Excessive humidity can encourage fungal diseases, such as leaf spot.

Fertilizer

Mums are fairly heavy feeders. You can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring, following label instructions. Or use a water-soluble fertilizer monthly through July. Any fertilization after July can trigger tender new growth that cold fall temperatures can damage. 

Types of Hardy Mums

Mums are recognized for their particular characteristics and there are many named varieties. The most popular categories include:

Anemone

This group features long, flat petals on blooms that reach a maximum size of around 4 inches. Varieties include the following:

‘Dorothy Mechen’: Light purple blooms

‘Adrienne Mechen’: Flowers with a pink center that fades to bright white tips

‘Samba’: Rose-pink flowers

‘Rhumba’: Coral red flowers

‘Harmony’: Bright yellow blooms

‘Overture’: Bright red flowers

‘Ruby Mound’: Semi-double bright ruby-red flowers

Pompom

Pompom (also spelled pompon) mums are fluffy flowers that are also known as button mums. All varieties produce compact blooms in various colors. Some common varieties include:

‘Patriot’: All white flowers

‘Garnet’: Crimson blooms that mature with bronze overtones

‘Barbara’: Small, purple flowers

Spoon

Named for its spoon-shaped petals, this type of mum grows petite flowers up to 4 inches in diameter. Popular varieties include:

‘Kimie’: Yellow-gold petals

‘Matchsticks’: Yellow centers that end dramatically in bright red “spoons,” and

‘Yellow Quill’: Bright yellow centers that fade into creamy white tips

Newer Varieties for Northern Climates

Historically, garden mums are regarded as hardy only to USDA zone 5, but there are recent introductions by Canadian and University of Minnesota horticulturalists who have created many varieties hardy to zone 4, and some even to zone 3. If you live in a northern climate, consider one of these:

My Favorite series: developed by the University of Minnesota, this mum is hardy into zone 3b. Plants are up to 4 feet tall, with coral, pink, or yellow flowers.

Morden series: Developed in Canada, these jewel-toned mums should be reliably hardy into zone 3. Named cultivars include ‘Morden Canary’, ‘Morden Delight’, ‘Morden Fiesta’, and ‘Morden Garnet’.

Other cultivars zone 3 and 4 gardeners can consider include those developed by the University of Minnesota:

‘Peach Centerpiece’: Peach-hued flowers

‘Rose Blush’: Delicate, double, rose-colored blooms

‘Sesquicentennial Sun’: Double-gold blooms

‘Betty Lou Maximum’: Large red flowers

SOURCE: THE SPRUCE

What Shall We Bake Today?

Today’s offering is a recipe I came across that I wrote down from somewhere. (IF this is your recipe GA, please let me know so I can give you credit!!)

Candied Pecans

Ingredients

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1 large egg white

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 lb. pecan halves (about 4 cups)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. 

In a small bowl, whisk together the sugars, cinnamon and salt. 

In a large bowl, whisk the egg white and vanilla extract until very foamy, about 1 minute. Add the pecans and stir until well coated. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the pecans and toss until fully coated. Spread pecans into an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. 

Bake for 20 minutes. Stir and spread out evenly again. Bake for another 20 minutes or until the nuts are very fragrant and are starting to darken in color. Let the pecans fully cool in the pan on a wire rack (the sugar will harden as it cools). Break into individual pieces. Store in an airtight container in the pantry for up to 2 weeks.

Black Friday…or Black Thursday Afternoon?

Thanksgiving dinner is over, the kitchen is cleaned up, the leftovers are in the fridge…so now what?  Most folks sit and relax and watch either a football game or Christmas movies.  Not my daughter and her family.  They clean up the kitchen from their lobster dinner—they don’t like turkey—and then spend time scouring the internet for coupons and deals and get ready to head out for shopping.  Black Friday used to start at 5 am on Friday, but it has been creeping up earlier and earlier.  Now stores and malls in their area open at 4 in the AFTERNOON of Thanksgiving.  Snooze and you lose!

I am opposed to Black Friday on several levels.  First, I hate crowds!  They creep me out!  Second, hundreds of people are waiting in line to nab the only 3 whatzits on sale for $5.99 and will jump and trample anyone to get one.  Third, did I mention crowds creep me out? LOL

I get all my shopping done way before Thanksgiving.  It matters not to me if I have to pay a little more to ensure that I get exactly what I want and not get trampled in the process.

If you are a Black Friday Warrior…GO AND CONQUER!!

I myself will be watching Christmas movies, snuggling in front of the fire with hot chocolate and hubby!

Little House Little Known Facts

I like the “little known facts” article that are posted about older television series. I found this one on amomama website.

“Little House on the Prairie” aired for a total of nine seasons until it came to a halt in 1982. Viewers and fans spent their days watching the characters, Laura, Mary, Carrie, and Grace growing up, but avid watchers only noticed some behind the scenes facts.

THE THEME SONG WAS QUITE SIMILAR TO THAT OF ANOTHER SHOW

David Rose, the composer and songwriter of the hit series, was responsible for getting the theme song stuck in the heads of loyal fans. However, the tune is quite similar to that of the show “Bonanza,” which ended a year before “Little House on the Prairie” began. It turns out; Rose is also the man behind the “Bonanza’s” theme song; hence, the close themes. An additional connection between the two shows is Michael Landon, who both starred in “Bonanza” as “Little Joe” and in “Little House on the Prairie” as Chris Ingalls.

A CLOSE DISMISSAL

Hitting their ninth season called for a celebration after the show’s almost cancellation by the time season two aired. NBC decided to move its Wednesday night time slot to Monday nights to gain more ratings. However, come the fourth season, the network was once again debating of having it canceled. Thanks to the show’s good ratings, the management decided not to push through with their initial plan.

THE OLESONS SIBLINGS ARE REAL-LIFE SIBLINGS

If fans ever noticed the last name of the actors who play Willie and Laura Oleson are the same, that’s because they are real-life siblings. Willie, played by Jonathan Gilbert, is the adopted younger brother of Laura, played by Melissa Gilbert. (((I dispute this one—Melissa Gilbert played Laura Ingalls not Laura Oleson.)))

LAURA AND NELLIE WERE REAL-LIFE BEST FRIENDS

While Nellie and Laura started their relationship as enemies, their distinct personalities later brought them together, until forming a good friendship. In fact, Nellie’s bouquet was tossed to Laura during her wedding. In reality, Nellie, played by Alison Arngrim, became close friends with Gilbert and even played games together off-screen, to pass the time on set. The manipulative character Nellie portrayed on screen was nothing close to how she was in real life.

INTENSE ADDICTIONS

As filming can be a pretty tough job that just drains the employees the entire day, many cast and crew members turned to drugs and alcohol for solace and strength; hence, seeing both on set was nothing new. On average, the crew would finish two cases of Coors beer per day, and on hectic days, which they named “three-case days,” they would finish so much more and drown out the stress can after can.

CURSE OF THE CANCER

To say it was a curse may have been just an exaggeration, but unfortunately, several cast members of the show were diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lives, with others even passing away.  Among those with the said ailment were Michael Landon, who got pancreatic cancer, Victor French, Kevin Hagen, and Charlotte Stewart, who managed to survive. It is believed that the reason behind the disease was radioactively contaminated materials on set.

MICHAEL LANDON WAS A WORK OF ART – OR SO HE BELIEVED.

Michael had very high praise for his personal physique, making sure that he never passed on an opportunity for his character to appear shirtless for the audience. Sporting tight-fitting prairie trousers, the Pa Ingalls star believed the best way to go was always a natural look; free of cosmetics treatment.

NELLIE OLESON’S CURLS WAS THE RESULT OF A WIG.

The character played by Alison Arngrim sported a unique hairdo of fashionable curls. During the initial weeks of filming the show, Arngrim’s hair was masterfully styled using sausage curls coupled with heating irons. For cost and time efficiencies, it was decided that this hairdo had to be sourced from a wig. The wig had to be held in place by quite a number of hairpins, which, at times, caused Arngrim’s scalp to bleed.

MICHAEL LANDON HUMORED EVERYONE

Michael Landon was dubbed the show’s clown for his antics and constant pranks on the crew and cast members. His humor radiated a light atmosphere during taping, which made the set a little less exhausting.

LAURA AND MANLY’S WEDDING WAS NOT WHAT YOU THOUGHT IT WAS

Although portraying a 17-year-old character in Laura, Melissa Gilbert was described to be an inexperienced 15-year-old, with all the innocence of the world. Her on-screen kiss with the character Almanzo Wilder, played by Dean Butler, was considered only the third time she has ever had a lips-to-lips with a boy, even startling her a bit with his beard stubble.  Romantic scenes were certainly not limited to kissing, as they also had to shoot one in bed. In an attempt to calm Gilbert down, Butler quietly sang the lyrics to “Strangers in the Night,” which resulted in a further unwanted effect. After such, Gilbert requested to limit the characters’ romantic scenes to mere hugs, and cheek pecks.

MICHAEL LANDON WAS NOT A CHRISTIAN

Despite Landon’s Christian-like character on the show, with a Christian message he was trying to get across, the actor was Jewish in real life. The different beliefs were never a setback for Landon as his mother was a Catholic.

MICHAEL LANDON WAS NOT A BRUNETTE

Landon’s perfect brown curls are not so perfect after all; In fact, they aren’t even real. His hair was dyed for the role, which covered up his bottle brunette hair. As he took the job seriously, Landon sought the help of a professional colorist to get the perfect look.

CHEMISTRY BECAME A PROBLEM ON THE SHOW

A growing cause for concern amongst the producers was the lack of sparks exhibited by couples on the show. A memo was circulating highlighting the lack of chemistry between the characters of Laura and Almanzo, a gap which could not be filled even by the actors themselves.  On the other hand, a memo also circulated pointing out the deranged love scenes by the characters of Nellie and Percival. While Steve Tracy (plays Percival) was, indeed, gay in real life, he and Alison Arngrim (plays Nellie) would make passionate on-screen kisses to annoy Melissa Gilbert.

WALNUT GROVE EXISTS

Walnut Grove is, in fact, a beautiful and real place. Laura Ingalls lived there for a while, and Laura Ingalls Wilder, the author of the book, lived in a place called Walnut Grove, Minnesota, when she was a child.

KAREN GRASSLE, WHO PLAYED ‘MA,’ DID NOT ALWAYS USE THE SAME NAME.

Grassle is also known for her stage name, Gabriel Tree. Upon her casting on the show, Michael Landon requested that she use her original name.

THERE WAS MORE THAN ONE CARRIE INGALLS.

In casting the youngest Ingalls daughter, producers had to bear in mind California child labor laws. Rachel and Sidney Bush were only three years of age. In the opening credits, it is Sidney shown running down the hill. Before shooting the scene, it was Rachel in front of the camera.

After the director requested for a “fresh twin,” an unfortunate mistake of lacing up Sidney with opposite pairs on each foot caused her to fall down the running scene. Michael Landon decided that it was too precious to remove from the final sequence.

THE SHOW SERVED AS AN ACTING DEBUT FOR SOME.

13-year-old Sean Penn played an uncredited schoolboy on the said show. With this father, Leo Penn, directing season one’s The Voice of Tinker Jones, Sean had the privilege of being cast, together with his mother.

CHARLES INGALLS HAD A SECRET WEAPON – HIS BOOTS.

With an official height measurement of 5-feet and 9-inches, Michael Landon faced a problem in not wanting any other characters to tower above his own. As a solution, he used 4-inch inserts for his boots, allowing him to gain some height advantage.  And if these insoles didn’t do the trick, Landon made sure his character was standing on something, may it be a ladder, a staircase, or just a bunch of dirt.

THE FOOD WAS ALWAYS DINTY BEEF STEW

A lot of scenes showed the family having dinner. Regardless of what Ma announced as the evening’s main course, whether chicken, rabbit, or squirrel, the correct answer was always Dinty Moore beef stew. You don’t just have to make the audience believe in the story, but with what the characters eat, as well.

CLOTHING WAS A TROUBLE ON SET

Some of the scenes were filmed in Simi Valley, California. A cool day in this place meant the temperature was in the low 90s. This reality became troublesome for some actors given that they were dressed from head to toe in heavy garments; from stockings, coats, and bonnets. Alison Arngrim, who plays Nellie passed out in the heat together with the assistant director.

Know-It-Alls: Tuesday Thanksgiving Trivia

Question: How much did the world’s most expensive Thanksgiving dinner on record cost?

Answer: $181,000

Old Homestead Steakhouse in Manhattan served up the most expensive Thanksgiving dinner in 2019 which was a whopping $181,000.  (2 free range, edible gold-flaked turkeys were the star of the meal.)

Question: How many women were at the very first Thanksgiving celebration?

Answer: Four

Although reports vary, it’s fairly certain that there were only four (maybe five) women at the first Thanksgiving celebration — all of which were married to men who were part of the first group of settlers.

Question: Which Native American acted as an interpreter?

Answer: Squanto

Question: Which city’s Thanksgiving Day Parade ends with Santa Claus getting a key to the city?

Answer: Detroit

Question: According to the Guinness Book of World Records, how much does the heaviest turkey on record weigh?

Answer: 86 pounds

Question: What town canceled Thanksgiving because they couldn’t make pumpkin pies?

Answer: Colchester, Connecticut

A frigid bout of cold weather in the middle of October led to the Connecticut River freezing, so settlers couldn’t get their usual liquid sugar shipped on time from across the pond.

Question: What professional football team has played almost every Thanksgiving since 1934?

Answer: The Detroit Lions

Question: What city is home to the oldest Thanksgiving parade?

Answer: Philadelphia

Question: What did President Calvin Coolidge famously receive as a Thanksgiving gift?

Answer: A live raccoon

Question: What’s the only area in Australia to celebrate Thanksgiving?

Answer: Norfolk Island

Question: How long was the first Thanksgiving?

Answer: Three days

Question: What food did the colonists and Native Americans not have at the first Thanksgiving?

Answer: Turkey

Question: What area of Massachusetts still looks just like it did in the 17th century?

Answer: Plymouth, Massachusetts

Question: What president refused to declare Thanksgiving a holiday?

Answer: Thomas Jefferson

Since Thanksgiving involved prayer and reflection, he thought designating it a national holiday would violate the First Amendment. He also thought it was better suited as a state holiday, not a federal one.

Question: What do Thanksgiving and the song “Mary Had A Little Lamb” have in common?

Answer: They were both created by the same woman — sort of.

Writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale convinced President Abraham Lincoln to officially declare Thanksgiving a national holiday after three decades of persistent lobbying.

Question: What wasn’t part of the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: Balloons

Question: What is Good Housekeeping‘s tie to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: We have a Good Housekeeping illustrator to thank for the parade’s first balloons.

German-American illustrator Tony Starg, whose illustrations were featured in Good Housekeeping, also had a passion for puppetry. He used that talent to make some amazing floats come to life in 1927.

Question: Has Thanksgiving always been celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November?

Answer: No. In 1939, Thanksgiving was celebrated on the third Thursday in November.

You might think President Roosevelt could predict the future, as he channeled a “Black Friday” mindset when he decided to move Thanksgiving during his presidency. Even though the holiday had been celebrated on the fourth Thursday since Lincoln officially recognized the federal holiday decades before, Roosevelt bumped it up a week effectively adding seven more shopping days to the holiday season to boost the economy.

Question: A Thanksgiving turkey mix-up inspired what popular meal trend?

Answer: Frozen TV dinners

In 1953, a Swanson employee accidentally ordered a colossal shipment of Thanksgiving turkeys (260 tons, to be exact). To deal with the excess, salesman Gerry Thomas took inspiration from the prepared foods served on airplanes. He came up with the idea of filling 5,000 aluminum trays with the turkey – along with cornbread dressing, gravy, peas and sweet potatoes to complete the offering. The 98-cent meals were a hit, especially with kids and increasingly busy households. Within a single year, over 10 million were sold and a whole industry was born.

Question: How many turkeys do Americans prepare each Thanksgiving?

Answer: 46 million

Question: What percentage of Americans actually eat turkey on Thanksgiving?

Answer: 88%

Question: How many grams of fat does the typical American eat on Thanksgiving?

Answer: 229 grams

Question: How many runners participated in America’s first turkey trot?

Answer: Six

The first race was hosted over a century ago by the local YMCA in Buffalo, NY and included just six runners — although only four of them made it to the finish line.

Question: What world record was set at a turkey trot in 2011?

Answer: Amount of people dressed up as turkeys

Not only are turkey trots one of the fun and unique Thanksgiving traditions, many of them also offer runners the unique opportunity to dress in fun costumes commemorating the day. On Thanksgiving Day in 2011, runners at the YMCA Turkey Trot in Dallas, Texas, dressed up in droves and set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as turkeys. In total, 661 people came wearing their feathered finest. Consider this your inspiration to do the same.

Question: What happens to the turkeys that are pardoned by the president each year?

Answer: The turkeys pardoned by the president go on to live fulfilled lives.

Question: Do turkeys actually gobble?

Answer: Only male turkeys gobble.

Question: Where do turkeys get their name?

Answer: Turkeys are (kind of) named after the country.

No, the big turkey does not really hail from the country Turkey. During the reign of the Ottoman Empire, a bird called the guinea fowl — which bears a striking resemblance to the American turkey — was imported to Europe from its native North Africa. Because the birds came from Turkish lands, Europeans called them the turkey-cock and turkey-hen. When settlers in the Americas began sending similar-looking birds back to Europe, the name had already stuck!

Question: According to Americans, what’s the best part of Thanksgiving?

Answer: The leftovers.

Question: How many calls does the Butterball turkey talk line get each year?

Answer: 100,000

Question: Do other countries celebrate the holiday?

Answer: Yes! Canada also celebrates Thanksgiving — but on a different day.

Question: How many places in the U.S. bear the name turkey?

Answer: Four

Question: How much pumpkin pie do Americans eat every Thanksgiving?

Answer: An estimated 50 million pumpkin pies are devoured every November.

Question: What is the busiest day of the year for plumbers?

Answer: Black Friday

Question: How many people go shopping on Black Friday?

Answer: Over 32 million people

Question: What day is honored every last Thursday in November?

Answer: National Day of Mourning

Question: What are “Tofurky Roasts”?

Answer: Meat-free Thanksgivings

Question: What real Thanksgiving food was popularized in How I Met Your Mother?

Answer: turturkeykey

Question: What did the balloons take the place of when introduced in the 1928 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: Live zoo animals

Question: Who was the first video-game character featured in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: Sonic the Hedgehog

Question: Who was the first Manga character featured in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?

Answer: Goku

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/thanksgiving-ideas/a35457/thanksgiving-trivia/

SOURCE: GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

Rufous-Crested Coquettes

The adult male’s forehead and crest, composed of quite rigid feathers, are cinnamon red. The back of their neck and most of the tops show a tan green color. A band varying from white to cinnamon blue crosses their upper rump. The central pair of rudders is dark bronze, the others are cinnamon-reddish with black tips. 

The feathers of their chin and throat show a yellowish green color with metallic shine, and have a cinnamon-rufous base that is most evident on the sides of their throat. The underparts are metallic bronze green, with the exception of a small white spot, located just below their throat.

Their irises are brown and their legs are grayish brown. The beak varies from red to reddish with a small grey or blackish spot on the tip depending on the subspecies. Central and South American breeds have a long crest and a reddish beak, while those of Mexico have a short, bushy crest and a blackish beak.

How do females differ from males?

Female rufous-crested coquettes differ from their partners in that they have no crest. Their forehead is dyed reddish while their throat has a reddish-cinnamon, white-cinnamon or white color. Small dark specks at the bottom of their throat sometimes form a transverse strip. The side rectrices have reddish tips and a wide black underground band. 

Central rudders are metallic green, just like the back. Belly and flanks are greyish brown and have no spots. The undertail coverts show a more or less pale cinnamon tone. Their beak has a darker tip than the male’s. Immature males resemble females, but their forehead, chin and upper throat vary from cinnamon red to opaque grey. As they get older, they acquire a crest of variable development.

Habitat

Rufous-crested coquettes live in humid or semi-humid forests with permanent leafy trees. They are also found on the edges of wooded areas and in clearings, even in mixed pine and hardwood forests, as well as in semi-deciduous stands. They tolerate highly degraded areas. Moreover, they live mainly in heights ranging from 1000 to 1500 meters. Outside the breeding season, they probably descend to lower altitudes.

Behavior

Rufous-crested coquettes often perch prominently on a well-exposed branch. When in flight, they move their tail up and down like true hummingbirds. Because of the band that covers their rump, these coquettes are often mistaken for moths, and more particularly, with sphinxes of the genus Aellopus, which have a similar size. 

Coquettes have a solitary lifestyle, except during the breeding season. These birds are sedentary, but they wander in search of places with abundant and small flowers. They are often forced to move because they are too small to compete with some species of hummingbirds.

Diet

These birds find their food in 3 different sources: they feed mainly on the nectar found in the small aromatic flowers of trees, grasses, shrubs or epiphytes. These usually have vibrant colors, tubular shape and contain a high energy content. 

In Central America, coquettes are attracted to legumes of the genus Inga. These trees are often used for shade in coffee and cocoa crops. They also visit the cecropias found in secondary forests, although these produce mainly pollen and little nectar. 

These hummingbirds occasionally visit artificial feeders, hoping to find sweet juices there. They also catch spiders and insects that are an important resource during the nesting period due to its high protein content.

Nesting

Coquettes do not establish marriage ties. In an attempt to seduce a partner, the male performs an air show, in which they make a “U” flight in front of her. After copulation, they cease all relationships and do not participate in various tasks, such as nest construction or feeding of young. They return to their courtship activities and try to mate with a new female. 

The female builds a cup-shaped nest that ties a web to a horizontal branch of a tree, between 6 and 25 meters above the ground. The laying usually consists of 1 or 2 white eggs, whose weight does not exceed 3 grams. 

The female incubates alone, probably for 12 or 13 days. Chicks are born naked and blind, depending entirely on their mother to take care of them for the first few days. This heats them for the first 2 weeks and then the mother leaves them after 12 days. Finally, the chicks leave the nest about 20 days after hatching.