5 good things: A life-saving gift, a holiday wonderland and the Color of the Year | National & World [Video]

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Right about now, you’re likely seeing clumps of poinsettias cropping up like flame-red jewels on porches, doorways and holiday displays around town. The poinsettia, also known as the Mexican flame flower or painted leaf, is indigenous to Mexico and Central America, which is probably why it doesn’t like the cold. Yes, if there’s a cold snap, these lovely symbols of wintertime will politely shrivel up as if waiting for a draft to pass. Ask me how I know! Luckily, despite consistent rumors, they are not seriously dangerous for pets or kids (as long as you don’t go making a poinsettia salad), so bring those babies inside and brighten up a room!

Here are all the good things that happened this week.