Dandelions

Dandelions though I know considered a weed to many people are one of my favorite plants. They bring back sweet childhood memories of warm sunny days running barefooted across the lawn without a care in the world. It is interesting how different people perceive Dandelions. I have this memory as a child; I was always fascinated with flowers and nature and saw these beautiful yellow flowers everywhere.  Being that there seemed to be plenty I picked several bouquets and decided to give them as gifts to my Mom and some neighbors. Well, let's just say I did not get the response I was expecting.  Every single neighbor but one practically slammed the door in my face, laughing and saying those are weeds.  When I went home with almost all of my bouquets I explained to my Mom what had happened while she found little cups full of water for my bouquets.  She said she loved them and not to pay attention to the neighbors they must not have any sense. So for a bit we had dandelion bouquets all about the house. Funny now I understand my Mom's comment.   She was disappointed that the neighbors hurt a little girl’s feelings.  The one neighbor that accepted my bouquet was an old woman that was a friend of mine.  I only knew her a few years before she passed on but she was one of the best friends I have ever had. 

 Dandelions represent characteristics such as survival, clarity, faithfulness and happiness. They have for many years been used as a food source and have some medical uses.  Dandelions are sensitive to light and dark. During the night the petals close and open up again when the sun shines. Though I do dig the Dandelions from my flowers beds, we still have some wild areas in our little woods where they can grow freely.  Even as an adult I find myself blowing the magical little sphere of seeds and picture what it would be like to float freely in so many directions.

For this post I am going to share a poem I wrote that was inspired by an old family photo of my uncle when he was a small child holding a Dandelion that went to seed.  He seemed to be totally captivated in the moment.  I am also sharing some photos taken in my little woods of Dandelions. 

Wild Geraniums

Every May in my little woods a huge patch of Wild Geraniums come into bloom.  There is an explosion of  lavender-pink in contrast to the darker shading of green and tree bark.  I visit this area often during this time of year. I find the plants are always moving, dancing with the wind and when I take photos I get some interesting effects.  With this flower patch some areas of my photo come into focus while the background blurs due to all the movement.  I never get bored taking pictures of these blooms and never know what I will get.  These plants grow in North America in wet or moist woodlands and meadows. There are some pharmaceutical uses and it has also been used by Native Americans.  One of the most common medical uses is for stomach ailments and diarrhea. For me this little piece of the earth provides a boost to my spirit. I find my soul moving and swaying with them each time I stop by for a visit.