BELTANE and bluebells.

a season in bloom.

“There is a tendency to doubt yourself in the midst of a big leap forward; hold steady and allow yourself to bloom”. Yung Pueblo

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In bloom.

The brimming blossom fell away overnight, like scattered confetti on the ground to reveal fresh green leaves in its place. 

Early May was traditionally marked by the ancient festival of Beltane (the mid-point between the spring Equinox, Ostara, and the summer solstice, Litha). The name Beltane is derived from Celtic meaning ‘bright fire’ and although it starts quietly, there is a shimmery, warming quality to this time of year. 

The day itself marked the transition between spring and early summer, with fire rituals performed to protect crops, cattle and community, and to encourage fertility, growth and abundance.

Sunshine in the garden and it feels as though the leaves have appeared overnight

May flowers and traditions.

As well as bonfires which were said to yield ashes with protective powers, Beltane was celebrated with high feast days where offerings were made to the spirits, ancestors, gods and goddesses; and houses were decorated with May flowers. Traditionally, primrose, rowan, hawthorn, gorse, hazel, marsh and marigold were placed on doors and windows of homes.

Across Europe, bushes, trees or branches were adorned with bright flowers, ribbons and decorated shells. The ‘May Bush’ could belong to a household or to an entire village where the entire community was involved in decorating the tree.

Reading some of my favourite flower books with a jug of tulips and a cup of tea

Bluebell season.

I have spent the last few days feeling drawn to nature both outdoors and in; from a twilight ‘potting on’ session on the garden table for my houseplants (moving them into bigger pots), to making daisy chains in the garden with Lila and Max.