Monthly Archives: December 2016

For Christmas trees there’s nothing like the smell of fir

Posted on December 28, 2016 by tedmanzer

I’m a fan of live Christmas trees. I know they’re messy and can only be used once, but artificial ones just can’t capture the same atmosphere. Finding just the right tree brings out the child in everyone. It’s been years … Continue reading →

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Creating family traditions strengthens Christmas memories

Posted on December 26, 2016 by tedmanzer

Everyone knows the reason we celebrate Christmas. We must never forget Christ is the reason, but every family can make the season personal by enjoying certain foods and activities that make us think of Christmas. What may become a tradition … Continue reading →

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Rambutan is a tasty nutritious conversation fruit

Posted on December 20, 2016 by tedmanzer

I like to try new things. You never know you like or dislike something until you try it, the saying goes. I was perusing Wal-Mart recently and noticed some red spiny looking things in the produce area. They looked like … Continue reading →

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Carolina jessamine provides winter color and privacy

Posted on December 13, 2016 by tedmanzer

It’s so hard to find landscaping with winter interest. Once mid-December hits and freezing temperatures are commonplace, most fall foliage color is gone. Very few flowers and flowering shrubs are blooming either. Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) still manages to display … Continue reading →

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Vinca vines are tough and beautiful but can be invasive

Posted on December 11, 2016 by tedmanzer

Few ground covers can fill any area as effectively as periwinkle vine.  There are actually two species commonly used and both have prolific bluish purple flowers. Both also have the ability to spread where they aren’t wanted. Lesser periwinkle (Vinca … Continue reading →

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