"A turkey and some mistletoe" certainly do make the Christmas season bright, but did you know they're both South Florida natives?
In the spirit of the holidays, we present The 12 Days of Christmas with a South Florida flavor. We examine some of the traditions, songs and symbols of the holidays, their meanings and origins, and substitute the plants and animals found here in the Sunshine State. No Santas on jet skis. Lots of Florida natives.
Many of the natural things associated with Christmas originated in the northern latitudes but surprisingly, they can be found here in the subtropics as well. Or at least things reasonably close. Others require poetic license, but hopefully still illuminate the traditions of the holidays. So, without further ado, we begin:
