I went to hear Starhawk speak in downtown L.A. She spoke about many things in relation to “the edge” She shined light on the importance of walking the edge pertaining to the learning curve - that scary uncomfortable place we walk when learning something new - the place where you can fall - the place where growth happens - and where the best feeding is for so many animals not in the forest but at the edge where nature is richest in nutrients from two different environments meeting. It was a great talk. The food was amazing organic and vegetarian and the pumpkin pie was the best Ive ever had. On the way home I thought about the plants I had just bought the small white honey scented Alyssum and the Lantana. Were these native to my area? I didnt know. Did they help the eco-system by proving pollen to bees butterflies and birds? I became aware and worried since they had taken to the soil and have begun to grow. They need water to thrive and taking water in dry California where I live to have colorful flowers suddenly seemed so wrong. I began to research native plants for my area. Now I must plot my next step in replanting. All this comes about at a time when many people purchase dead pine trees cut down for nothing - to throw tinsel on and then throw it in the garbage. Wow! How crazy! If you must have a christmas tree - get one thats got roots so you can plant it when your done having it in your home. Peace  intention and gratitude ~ Alyssa