Fluff and Stuff

I love dandelions. I know they are “weeds” in some folks estimations, but I just love them.  What I love more, is watching my little ones as they pick one, make a wish, then earnestly look at me with their eyes, wide as saucers, for validation that they performed the wish properly.   It really is the little things…

My husband sent me a picture of this beautiful little wishing flower, nestled in the grass of our field.  It is endearing that he is taking time to notice and see the beauty in these seemingly small details of our world.  

My personal favorite fun facts about Dandelions:

• The word Dandelion comes from the French name for the plant dents de lion. This means teeth of the lion and refers to the jagged edges of the leaf of the plant.
• Dandelions are an important source of food for bees because they bloom early and virtually all growing season long, providing abundant pollen for food. It is estimated that nearly 100 species of insects count on this pollen for food.

§  “The dandelion is an excellent barometer, one of the commonest and most reliable. It is when the blooms have seeded and are in the fluffy, feathery condition that its weather prophet facilities come to the fore. In fine weather the ball extends to the full, but when rain approaches, it shuts like an umbrella. If the weather is inclined to be showery it keeps shut all the time, only opening when the danger from the wet is past.” Source: “Camping For Boys,” by H.W. Gibson

I found this adorable tutorial online and thought I’d share:

 “How to Wish on a Dandelion

1.  First look for the fluffiest dandelion you can find. The seeds should be about to fall off but it is best when none have already done so. If you are lucky enough to happen upon a patch of them you will easily tell which of the stems is crying for your breath. Pick that one and don’t make the magic wait any longer.

2.  Pick the dandelion carefully. You don’t want to send any seeds on their way prematurely. If the wind is blowing you may need to block the breeze with your body as you prepare your seeds for flight.

3.  Once you have your stem, it is time to think about your wish. Important rule, never tell anyone for what you are wishing.* If you are making a wish primarily for yourself it is always a good idea to tack one on for a friend. It always helps a wish to travel with a friend.

4.  Continue thinking about your wish as you take a deep breath. Hold the fluffy head of your dandelion near your mouth and turn carefully in the direction of the breeze. This insures a good flight for your wish and keeps all the seeds from landing on your clothing or in your hair.For the magic to be at it’s best you must blow all the seeds off with one breath. If you do not accomplish this, some superstitions raise questions about the stability of your love life, however I usually just find another and try again.

5.  Take a few minutes and watch as your wish floats out of sight. Don’t rush this part. Part of the magic is knowing that your intentions are being sent far and wide. Watching until the last seed is out of sight helps the wish come true.”

Just in case you didn’t know…