Christmas in Cali

I'm an East Coast gal, used to spending my Christmas in cold, snow, ice or any combination of the three. Despite having lived in California for the last dozen years, Christmas always sneaks up on me. I blame it on the lack of weather cues. The weather in my town is perpetually September.

My native Californian friends tell me it's because I don't pay close enough attention. The weather here doesn't grab you by the throat and shake you, it eases its way in. Changes are subtle but they're there.

So I went looking for proof that nature is into Christmas in Cali.

First some fall color. Yes, it's December, but it's never too late for flaming maple trees.



Bird of paradise are always festive. Especially with reindeer.


I found some red and green trees:



Up close you can see those are berries.



Of course, geraniums are festive.



And roses:



And the Christmas bougainvillea, of course:



December 25th arrives whether or not we're ready. Here's hoping you enjoy yours with friends, family and some red and green.