When the tumult and stress of the holidays begins rearing its unwanted twin-head, I seek out little pockets of respite. A glimpse of chartreuse lemon cypress reminds of spring in hue and scent, and a scarlet stretch of poinsettias provides thrilling contrast. Despite the fiery holiday tableaux, the beauty acts as a balm the way beauty usually does. It calms and comforts the heart, even as the craziness of Christmas approaches with all its noise and might.
