HerbDoc has a spring in her step these days!

The weather here in Rhode Island during the past week has been spectacular, and it seems as if spring has finally arrived!  Snowdrops and crocus have been happily blooming in my garden, the daffodils are up and budded, and the goldfinches at the feeder are showing deeper coloration. Spring songs are evident from other feathered friends.

The markets are carrying cut and potted spring flowers, the always popular St. Patrick’s Day shamrocks, and oxalis, often mistaken for real shamrocks.  For those who are unfamiliar with the legend behind the four leaf clover, the leaves represent faith, hope, love and luck.  In Ireland, the three leaved shamrock represents the Holy Trinity:  the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.  If a shamrock is found with a fourth leaf, it represents God’s Grace.

It is said that Eve carried a four leaf clover from the Garden of Eden, and the early Celts used white clover as a charm against evil spirits.  The Druids considered the four leaf clover a symbol of luck.  Finding a real one today is a rarity, and like the Druids, we see it as a sign of good fortune.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all and here’s to the continuing good weather and finding a four leaf clover in your lawn when it greens up!

Don’t forget to push your clocks ahead one hour on Saturday evening!