Temperatures are dipping below 37-degrees tonight in Los Angeles county and San Fernando Valley, posing a threat to tender plants.

I always find exotic fruit and spices at my local Vallarta Mexican market and the prices are less expensive than at the upscale markets. Take a look at the whole spices, nuts, and fruits available in December.

I’m fascinated by my aloe vera plant, more so for the valuable gel in the leaves than for its looks. Aloe vera is definitely on my short list of “miracle plants,” or plants with benefits.

This year I made some beautiful, (and delicious) holiday ornaments for my kitchen chandelier and Christmas tree from dried fruit.

There is a tree commonly called the “Miracle Fruit Tree,”  (Synsepaylum dulcificum), that bears small, red berries that will blow your mind!