Mistletoe – Girl Who Would be KING on Life, Style and INSPIRATION.

Words…Holly vs. Mistletoe

I just cut some Holly…or was it Mistletoe… from a tree up the street. Which is which or is it the same thing? I should know this stuff but just to make sure I consulted a website & came across these snappy little rhymes below that will help to differentiate the two organisms in such a fashion that you never get them confused again:

In our modern society, so far removed from nature (for most people, not us Vancouverites), people often make mistakes that would have been unthinkable a few centuries ago – like confusing holly and mistletoe. Both are plants, both bear tiny inedible berries, and both are used as decoration around December. Those are the only things they have in common. Somehow, people get them mixed up, usually hanging holly as mistletoe (oops), and attempting (improperly!) to kiss beneath it.

NOW PAY ATTENTION!

Berries of white, kissing’s alright.
Berries of red get you hit in the head.

Okay, I’ve got rhyme, now to work on meter… maybe if I mix it up with a limerick….

There once was a garland of red,
Who rustled his spikes and said:
“Though I’m decoration,
I can’t cause affection,
I wish I were mistletoe instead.”

I think we’re onto something, here.

Traditional antidote for poison
Though most have an allergic reaction
The druids don’t care
They’re too busy sharing
a kiss to compile reliable medical information.”

Big showstopping number!

The holly looked up t’ward the tree,
“How do you do it?” said he.
“You drain sap like a vampire,
Yet folks say you inspire
Far more kisses than me.

The mistletoe softly replied,

“Though I wear white like a bride,
It’s your red berries
that make people merry,
Mine’s a minor tradition beside.”

Okay, that’s about as good as it’s going to get, here. I hope we’ve all got it straight, now:

Holly has red berries and pointy leaves.
Holly!

Mistletoe!

from tailsteak.com

FUN

B well – seasonal plants can be hazardous to your pet’s health

Little healthful tidbits that go a long way….

Did you know….that many of the plants that are popular at this time of year can be harmful and even poisonous to cats and dogs? Here’s a rundown of some to keep them away from:

Poinsettia – The flowers and leaves can upset your pet’s stomach but it’s an urban myth that this Christmastime staple is deadly. You do not have to banish it from your home for fear of pet fatality. That said, try to keep it out of the reach of prying paws.

Mistletoe – consuming a few leaves or berries causes mild gastritis. But store bought mistletoe often has plastic berries, and if large quantities of plastic are ingested, your vet may need to induce vomiting. If the plastic remains in the digestive tract, your pet may require surgery.

American Holly – This plant contains potentially toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal irritation. Make sure to keep it out of reach as well.

Amaryllis – All parts of this plant are toxic. Eating the flower or the stem can cause vomiting. But consuming the bulb is most harmful, resulting in hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and neurological issues.

Kalanchoe – If ingested, this flowering succulent can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Place it up high so your pet cannot reach it, or in a room your pet cannot access.

This will help in knowing that you can still enjoy your merry plants.

While we’re on the subject sometimes I’ve been confused between these two plants but I do like the representation….the holly, with its green leaves and red berries, reflects a passion for new life and fresh beginnings. mistletoe symbolize romance and the immortal values that society preserves in its rituals.