Tuesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• The holiday rom-com that spotlights sustainability

• Sunset of the day in Pennsylvania

• See how pigeons survive the big apple

• Easy handmade ornaments

True or False?

Turning off holiday lights during the day saves more energy than switching to LED lights.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

The Holiday Rom-Com that Spotlights Sustainability

The new Netflix rom-com A Merry Little Ex-Mas isn’t just cozy holiday fun. It also sneaks in some genuinely helpful sustainability ideas. Alicia Silverstone plays Kate, a “green architect” who keeps her holiday traditions low-waste and thoughtful. In the film, she gifts her family thrifted clothes in recycled wrapping paper and even wears secondhand pieces herself, showing how easy it is to choose used before buying new.

Behind the scenes, the cast and crew embraced the same mindset. Producer-star Melissa Joan Hart shared that the film’s set relied on electric vehicles, real plates and utensils, and composting at lunch. These are small swaps that cut waste without sacrificing the movie’s magic.

Both Silverstone and Hart wanted the sustainability message to feel approachable, not preachy. The goal: show viewers that greener holiday habits don’t require perfection, just a few simple choices that reduce waste and still feel joyful.

It’s a holiday movie that delivers cozy vibes and a little inspiration for celebrating more consciously this season.

Sunset of the Day in Pennsylvania

Tina shared this dreamy pastel sunset from Lake Clarke in Wrightsville, Pennsylvania, where the clouds glowed pink above the quiet water. The candy-striped lighthouse, calm boats, and cotton candy sky make it feel like a scene from a painting.

Thank you, Tina, for this peaceful moment on the water. Have a sunset or view you love? Send it in for a chance to be featured as sunset of the day.

The Hidden Nature Story Unfolding in New York

City life doesn’t always feel connected to nature, but some species prove just how intertwined the two really are. “NATURE: The Pigeon Hustle” follows New York’s most overlooked urban wildlife as they adapt, innovate, and survive in a constantly shifting environment.

Part of THIRTEEN’s Forces of Nature collection, the film explores resilience, sustainability, and what happens when human design meets natural instinct. It’s a reminder that even in the busiest cities, the natural world is always right beside us—learning, adjusting, and thriving.

Take a closer look at NYC’s wild side.

Thank you to WNET for sponsoring The Canopy.

Easy Handmade Tree Ornaments

If you’re trying to decorate your tree without adding more waste to the season, homemade ornaments are one of the easiest low-impact swaps. So many of the sweetest ideas start with things already in your home: felt scraps, leftover yarn, spare ribbon, dried citrus, even a ping pong ball or two.

Upcycled supplies give these ornaments a built-in charm: paper medallions from old scrapbook pages, tiny felt wreaths from fabric leftovers, clay shapes that double as keepsakes, or photo ornaments that turn family memories into décor. Many of these projects take just a few minutes and are sturdy enough for kids to help with.

Handmade ornaments also make thoughtful, low-waste gifts. A dried orange slice threaded with twine, a tiny beaded wreath, or a simple clay house ornament becomes a meaningful keepsake. A cozy craft night can leave your tree feeling more personal, more sustainable, and a lot more special.

Final Thoughts:

Even in the busiest cities, nature finds a way. “NATURE: The Pigeon Hustle” takes a closer look at how New York’s pigeons adapt, persist, and thrive in the urban landscape. Watch the film now.

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True! Turning off holiday lights during the day does save more energy than switching to LED lights.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!