While decorating for Christmas, we often forget visitors or members of our own family who cannot speak: small children, dogs, cats, and other household pets. Be careful when decorating with tinsel and greenery. Tinsel is very attractive to children and pets but can become a choking hazard and/or cause health concerns if swallowed.

Greenery that has poisonous leaves or berries, such as poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe should always be used with discretion and kept out of reach from both pets and children. If in doubt, use artificial greenery from your local craft store.

Safe Decorating,Brenda Bates

www.inHISpath.com

From Brenda's Kitchen:  Christmas Toffee

2 sticks of butter

1 cup of sugar

1 Tablespoon of water

1 Tablespoon light Karo syrup

1 cup of blanched slivered almonds

6 oz. pkg of semi-sweet chocolate chips

On medium heat, melt the butter (margarine does not work) and then add sugar, water, and Karo syrup, stirring constantly for ten minutes or more - until the mixture turns butterscotch in color. Add the almonds and pour onto a cookie sheet. Spread the mixture out on the sheet. Top with chocolate chips, spreading as they melt. Let this cool completely, then break into pieces.

This recipe is very simple but nothing is too simple to goof up. This recipe doesn't seem to work with margarine, so use butter like it says. Undercooking will make this tasty treat grainy and awful. Don't undercook it. After the mixture comes to a boil, cook it for ten minutes like the recipe says.

This homemade candy tastes like a Heath Bar and goes down like one. Make two batches, maybe three, or find a good hiding place. May the season warm and delight your hearts.