“Green Blanket” by Lauren M. is a touching nonfiction piece that has made me realize how lucky I am to have loving parents, a caring family, and devoted teachers. This thought‑provoking article should be recognized.

By simply describing one holiday shopping scene, Lauren revealed how many shoppers are stressed out around the holidays trying to buy something impressive on a tight budget. Between preparing meals and gathering with extended families, gifts are not the least of their worries. She reminds readers that though we may not be excited by all our holiday gifts, we must always make the best of what we ­receive.