May, Signs of Spring

By Leslie Watkins

Illustration by Leslie Watkins © 2017

Signs and symbols can be found everywhere. A magnificent red cardinal appears at the bird feeder… more than just another bird visitor, cardinals are also regarded as messengers from our dearly departed. Considered in that way, we may be reminded to take a little time in our busy day to remember someone loved who has passed. Further, we may be reminded to enjoy our own precious time on earth and spend that time doing worthwhile things. Hummingbirds remind us of the lightness and joy of life. In Asia, the dragonfly is a symbol of fleeting time. Many spring flowers are symbolic of love and passion: tulips, apple blossoms and lilacs. And many of us probably have our own personal meanings and memories for things we find in nature.

At this time of year, we are eager to get our gardens back in order. Warmer weather, spring rain and longer days accelerate the burgeoning of life all around us. It’s easy to overlook the small colors and sounds as we work, but deeper observation brings deeper thoughts and these have value. They enhance our lives and can bring us greater personal satisfaction. Nature helps us regain our equilibrium, replenish our energy and balance our psyches. It helps to give us the strength to deal with the challenges we face with our families, our communities and the world at large. Fresh air, sunlight and exercise bring both immediate and long term results.

Bears make their appearance as they forage for fresh food. They symbolize strength, power and introspection. Animals of all kinds seek fresh spring greens to build up their health and provide nutrients for producing and feeding their offspring. We all need the vitamins found in these amazing solar energy converters to keep our bodies strong, protect us from disease and just to feel good. For an early spring tonic, dig up the long taproots of burdock. The older tough ones can be coarsely chopped, boiled, steeped and drained for an earthy, delicious and healthful tea. Younger roots are delicious sliced at an angle and added to stir-fries. Burdock is beneficial to liver function and contains lots of potassium. Burdocks may be characterized by its tenacity, persistence and innovation. After all, it did serve to inspire the clever invention of Velcro.

Dandelions are among the earliest flowers to appear in spring. Originally from Europe, they have made their way around the world and are found on every continent except Antarctica. They symbolize happiness, fidelity and wishes, and provide pollinators, animals and people with loads of nutrients. Dandelions are a superfood containing more protein that spinach, and more vitamins than just about anything commonly found in the produce aisle. The roots and leaves may be used medicinally and honeybees seek their pollen as an early food source. “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” author, Richard Bach, said, “You are never given a wish without also being given the power to make it come true.”

Dandelion Fritter Recipe
Dandelion flowers
Flour
Thyme
Salt and pepper
Egg
Milk or water
Grape-seed oil

Gather dandelion blossoms when they are fully opened. Carefully pick away the bitter stem and green bracts underneath. Make a simple batter mixing dry ingredients first then adding egg and a little milk. Dunk the blossoms into batter coating all sides. Gently drop them into frying pan with hot oil. Turn until golden on all sides and drain on paper towels. Serve with a dandelion green salad.

May Chore Checklist

Prune back early flowering shrubs after blooming.

Learn to identify harmful and beneficial insects.

Add compost to garden beds.

Keep pulling young weeds before they grow long roots.

Water as needed, especially newly planted trees and shrubs.

Keep vegetable garden beds weed free and mulched.

Direct sow beans, squash and sunflowers.

Clean hummingbird feeders and fill.

Harvest and enjoy chives, pea sprouts, micro greens.

Take time to sit quietly and enjoy spring.