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greenwitchcrafts · 2 months

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March 2024 witch guide

Full moon: March 25th

New moon: March 10th

Sabbats: Ostara-March 19th

March Worm Moon

Known as: Crow Moon, Eagle Moon, Goose Moon, Hrethmonath, Lenting moon, Lentzinmanoth, Moon of Snowblind, Moon of Winds, Plow Moon, Sap Moon, Seed Moon, Sore Eyes Moon, Storm Moon, Sugar Moon & Wind Strong Moon

Element: Water

Zodiac: Pisces & Aries

Nature spirits: Air & water spirits & Mer-people

Deities: Artemis, Astarte, Athena, Cybele, Isis, Luna & Minerva

Animals: Boar, cougar & hedgehog

Birds: Sea crow & sea eagle

Trees: Alder, dogwood & honeysuckle

Herbs: Apple blossom, broom, high John root, Irish moss, pennyroyal, wood betony & yellow dock

Flowers: Daffodil, jonquil & violet

Scents: Apple blossom & honeysuckle

Stones: Aquamarine, bloodstone, jasper, opal &topaz

Colors: Pale-green, red, violet, yellow & white

Energy: Balance, beginnings, dream work, energy breaking into the open, exploring, fertility, inner development, karma, prosperity, spirituality, success & truth seeking

For many years, it was thought that the name "Worm Moon" referred to the earthworms that appear as the soil warms in spring. This invites robins and other birds to feed—a true sign of spring.

However, more research revealed another explanation. In the 1760s, Captain Jonathan Carver visited the Naudowessie (Dakota) and other Native American tribes and wrote that the name Worm Moon refers to a different sort of “worm”—beetle larvae—which begin to emerge from the thawing bark of trees and other winter hideouts at this time.

March’s full Moon often plays a role in religion, specifically in Christianity, this Moon is known as the Lenten Moon if it is the last full Moon of the winter season (i.e., if it occurs before the spring equinox) or as the Paschal Full Moon if it is the first full Moon of spring (i.e., if it occurs after the spring equinox).

Ostara

Known as: Alban Eiler, Lady Day & Spring/Vernal equinox

Season: Spring

Symbols: 8-spoked wheel, butterflies, chicks, decorated baskets, eggs, feathers, jellybeans, lambs, rabbits, seeds, shamrocks, spring flowers & sunwheels

Colors: Green, indigo, light blue, pastels, pink, red & yellow

Oils/Incense: African violet, florals, ginger, jasmine, lotus, magnolia, rose, sage & strawberry

Animals: Cormorant, hare, hawk, rabbit, sheep, sparrow & swallow

Mythical: Dragon & Unicorn

Stones: Amethyst, aquamarine, bloodstone, moonstone, red jasper & rose quartz

Food: Dairy foods, eggs(hard boiled), fruits, honey, honey cakes, leafy greens, vegetables, pine nuts, pumpkin, sunflower seeds, sprouts & waffles

Herbs/Plants: Acorn, cinquefoil, dogwood, ginger, Irish moss, olive, strawberry & woodruff

Flowers: Celandine, crocus, daffodil, dandelion, Easter lily, jasmine gorse, honeysuckle, hyssop, iris, jonquil, linden, narcissus, peony, snowdrop, tansy & violet

Goddesses: Aphrodite, Ariadne, Artemis, Athena, Coatlicue, Cybele,Demeter, Diana, Eos, Eostre, Flora, Gaia, Hera, Idunn, Iris, Ishtar, Juno, Minerva, Persephone, Venus & Vesta

Gods: Adonis, Attis, Celi, Cernunnos, Coel, Dagda, Dalon ap Landu, Dumuzi, Green Man, Lord of the Greenwood, Mithras, Odin, Osiris, Ovis & Pan

Issues, Intentions & Powers: Agriculture, balance, beauty, fertility, growth, life, love & rebirth/renewal

Spellwork: Air magick, fertility, new beginnings & water magick

Activities:

• Go on a hike/walk & look for signs of spring

• Add Ostara symbols to decorate your altar space

• Plant vegetable &/or flower seedlings

• Decorate eggs with bright colors

• Set your intentions for the weeks/months ahead

• Start a new class or hobby

• Create eggshell candles

• Make plans & new routines for the future

• Participate in rituals & ceremonies that connect you with energy & the life force of nature

• Have a feast with your friends &/family with sprouts & leafy greens

• Bake hot cross buns or lavender/lemon flavored treats

• Clean & de-clutter your home

• Try a re-birthing/ renewing ritual

• Bring fresh flowers or plants into into the home

• Host a spring & floral themed tea party

• Make egg based food dishes & desserts

This holiday marks the Spring Equinox, which happens before March 19-22. It is the second of three spring celebrations (the midpoint between Imbolc and Beltane) during which light & darkness are again in balance, with light on the rise. It is a time of new beginnings & of life emerging further from the grips of winter.

There is much debate regarding the origins of Ostara due to the lack of primary sources about this sabbat. One theory is the name of Ostara came from the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre. Another theory is that Eostre is more of a localized goddess in Kent County, England. Despite the questions of her origins, Eostre is associated with modern-day Pagan traditions of Ostara.

There is no evidence that the ancient Greeks or Romans celebrated Ostara, although they did celebrate their own spring festivals, such as the Roman festival of Floralia & the Greek festival of Anthesteria. It was a time to honor the returning sun, fertility & rebirth.

Related festivals:

• Nowruz- March 19th

Nowruz marks the first day of spring & renewal of nature. It is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox. It is also celebrated as the beginning of the new year by people all around the world for over 3,000 years in the Balkans, the Black Sea Basin, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East & other regions.

It promotes values of peace & solidarity between generations & within families as well as reconciliation & neighbourliness. Nowruz plays a significant role in strengthening the ties among peoples based on mutual respect & the ideals of peace and good neighbourliness.

Traditional customs of Nowruz include fire & water, ritual dances, gift exchanges, reciting poetry, symbolic objects & more; these customs differ between the diverse peoples & countries that celebrate the festival.

• Holi- March 25th

Holi is a popular & significant Hindu festival celebrated as the The festival of colors, Love &Spring. It commemorates eternal and divine love of the deities Radha & Krishna. Additionally, the day signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it celebratess the victory of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu. Holi originated & is predominantly celebrated in the Indian subcontinent, but has also spread to other regions of Asia & parts of the Western world through the Indian diaspora.

Holi also celebrates the arrival of Spring in India, the end of winter & the blossoming of love. It is also an invocation for a good spring harvest season. It lasts for a night & a day, starting on the evening of the Purnima (full moon day) falling on the Hindu calendar month of Phalguna, which falls around the middle of March in the Gregorian calendar.

• Easter- March 31st

also called Pascha or Resurrection Sunday is a Christian festival & cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day of his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. It is the culmination of the Passion of Jesus Christ, preceded by Lent (or Great Lent), a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, & penance.

Easter traditions vary across the Christian world & include sunrise services or late-night vigils, exclamations & exchanges of Paschal greetings, flowering the cross & the decoration and the communal breaking of Easter eggs (a symbol of the empty tomb) among many others. The Easter lily is a symbol of the resurrection in Western Christianity traditionally decorates the chancel area of churches on this day & for the rest of Eastertide. Additional customs that have become associated with Easter & are observed by both Christians & some non-Christians include Easter parades, communal dancing, the Easter Bunny & egg hunting.

Other Celebrations:

• Festival of Luna- March 31st

Is a feast day honoring the Goddess Luna who is seen as the divine embodiment of the Moon.

The Temple of Luna was a temple on the Aventine Hill in Rome, dedicated to Luna, the moon goddess. Its dedication was celebrated on March 31st, thus the celebration.

According to Tacitus, it was built by king Servius Tullius. However, the first confirmed reference to a temple to Luna dates to 182 BC & refers to one of its doors being knocked off its posts by a miraculous blast of air & shot into the back of the Temple of Ceres. That account probably places the temple at the north end of the hill, just above porta Trigemina. The temple was struck by lightning around the time of the death of Cinna, as was the temple of Ceres. After the destruction of Corinth, Lucius Mummius Achaicus dedicated some of his spoils from the city to this temple. It was destroyed in the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD & not rebuilt.

Sources:

Farmersalmanac .com

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kines

Wikipedia

A Witch's Book of Correspondences by Viktorija Briggs

Encyclopedia britannica

Llewellyn 2024 magical almanac Practical magic for everyday living

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zurareads · 6 days

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one of the final signs of that neil and kevin were free from riko and evermore was their tattoos. though neil’s wasn’t entirely his choice. I wonder what will become of jean’s. I want a symbol that jean knows that the symbol means freedom. shows him that he did not deserve what they did to him. that he did not deserve to live in the darkness.

one idea I’ll like to see is a daffodil. the flower painted on the fence that could be seen right outside his window. it is the symbol of rebirth and new beginning. any time he sees it, he would be reminded of jeremy, cat and laila. the ones who became his friends and family. who showed him that he deserves better. that he deserves happiness and a bright future. then there’s the fact that cat has vibrant flowers on her back. and she is one of the first of the trojans to show a lot of affection towards jean (shower & head kisses, motorcycle ride). she is also the first trojan he told about his sister.

#all for the game #the sunshine court #tsc #nora sakavic #jean moreau #neil josten #kevin day #jeremy knox #catalina alvarez #laila dermott

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xiaolumi-love · 1 year

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what do you need to hear right now?

a timeless pick a pile reading.

remember, this is a general reading, so take what resonates and leave what doesn't!

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

pile 1.

you are on the verge of a beautiful transformation, pile 1. the Butterfly Spirit and the Raven Spirit are with you right now. you are being called to embrace growth and change like an old friend, and to speak your truth. butterflies are animals of huge growth and development, and ravens have long been said to be messengers of the celestial. your body may be experiencing spiritual signs, like aches in the stomach and tingling in the extremities that seem without reason. you may be on the verge of a spiritual awakening, or some other kind of psychological growth spurt. be prepared to face the truth of your development, and have courage. it takes guts to grow, because like any other skill it takes effort and focus, but you have it within you. the Wizard of the Woods is with you, and is asking you what your deepest wish is. but you must have a clear desire in your heart and soul and head -- this is the only condition, for without focus, you will lack finesse. but you don't need to fear, because these beings have your back. remember that focus can be achieved through movement or meditation. take a walk at your local park, or simply take a few moments to breathe, or journal your thoughts freely in a private space with no fear. what comes out? what do you want to achieve? and then, don't worry about the rest. you don't need to concern yourself with the how, the what, the where. trust in the Divine, and miracles will happen. the Rainbow Waterfall is a sign of great blessings, and like the tale of the treasure at the end of the rainbow, you are on the path to everything you could ever want. so keep it up, and keep looking forward. your very existence is a miracle, and the more you focus on the blessings in your life, the more you will attract.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

pile 2.

the Willow Spirit is with you, pile 2. you are more than capable of approaching the situation you are in with grace and elegance and kindness. using your intelligence, your instincts, your intrinsically good self, navigate these winds like the boughs of the willow tree, swaying and bending in the wind so they don't break where a sturdier and harder tree may snap. sometimes practicing leniency as a choice is a strength. you have the power in you to choose your behaviour wisely. the Bear Spirit being with you as well allows you to heal. you yourself are a healer. you are worthy of being bestowed with this healing power so when someone says "thank you" just for you being yourself, you need not ponder on how it happened. simply graciously say "you're welcome." you're a grounding force, and the Bear Spirit keeps you warm from the inside out. this situation will resolve. the Daffodil Fairy being with you indicates that this situation is a new beginning, the start of something fresh like the first blossoms in springtime. this Daffodil Fairy welcomes you to a new phase in life with open arms, and you will be hopefully be happy to know that the pain of the past can remain there, if you so choose to let go. the Frog Spirit is a Spirit of monumental development and change over time, due to the way frogs change form over their lifetimes. from egg to tadpole to frog, the frog is considered to be a lucky animal, an animal of healing, and of birth and rebirth. fortune is on your side, pile 2! with healing, new beginnings and your inner versatility on your side, you will go far. the Forest Temple indicates you're on the path to spiritual growth. you may be experiencing a spiritual awakening. if you're feeling like your body is changing, if you're experiencing sounds, smells, tastes that don't seem to make sense, or you're experiencing aches in the stomach or extremities that seem odd and unlike true pain, or you're noticing messages that seem to align well with what you're going through more frequently than before... congratulations! you're simply on your way. meditate, experience nature, research into witch tools, if you so feel called. journal lots and lots freely. you may grow and heal and leave behind the past more rapidly than you could even imagine.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

pile 3.

wow, pile 3! you got so many cards. Spirit has many messages for you! Aspen Spirit is asking you to remember your courage. the aspens have a network of roots that connect them to each other, the same way you are connected to your loved ones: your family, whether that be by blood or found, your community, and those you have even yet to meet! have faith, be courageous, and accept help when you need it. you're on quite the journey, and we all could use some support now and again. there is no weakness in being supported, only love and beauty. the Maple Spirit is a sign of generosity, reminding you to give, give and give! you will receive tenfold. the pay it forward methodology of karma means that what you put out into the world, you will receive. so remember, as a force for good, give, and you will receive! Moonlight Enchantment says magic is all around you. underneath the light of the moon, though it is dark, you are forever being guided forward. elvies, pixies, fairies, forest creatures of all kinds... they're gathering, and they are celebrating! the veil between worlds is thin right now, and you need to remember this, my dear pile 3: everywhere and everything is magic. you are magic, i am magic, we are all magic. it is all connected, and you are being asked to bask in it. Meandering Pathway is asking you to flow with your way of life. though it may be frustrating when you face rocks, branches, and trees on your pathway, remember that you may simply enjoy the stroll. it's a matter of relinquishing your desire for control, and having faith in the Universe to carry you forward. you will reach what serves your highest good with time. the Unicorn is a creature of purity, and on your journey you will encounter it as you remember who you really are. you are pure. you may feel as if life has tainted you, as if this world has tainted you, but rest assured you are nothing but pure, my dear pile 3. the Unicorn knows it well. furthermore, Mystic Meadow is asking you to seek sanctuary during this time. in this Mystic Meadow, foxes and rabbits sleep nestled together, and all creatures big and small relax in each other's company. you are being called to remember what makes you feel at home, at peace, and still. seek to stay somewhere you feel safe, or with people you feel safe, during this time. you will be rewarded for your time spent in sanctuary. the Ancient Oak Spirit is reminding you of your strength. now is the time to be strong, to give yourself the inner fortitude to carry on. the Ancient Oak Spirit stands tall and strong and has for thousands of years, and you may draw upon its energy to give yourself the brilliance you need in this time. and finally, the Wild Rose Fairy asks you to remember that you are loved. you are so very loved, adored and cherished. not just by those around you, but by the Universe, by all your Spirits, Angels and Guardians. if only you could see yourself how the Universe sees you, but know that all these messages were delivered with love just the same. do your best, pile 3. you've come a long way, and you deserve to relax and enjoy the journey right now.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

thank you for reading! wishing you a wonderful day or night ahead. if you enjoyed or appreciated, please consider reblogging instead of just liking. this helps me reach more people! you also have the option to tip me if you so choose! thank you very much.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

signature art credit to @.zillychu!

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cochineal-leviat · 1 month

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O, Herald of Spring, bright Daffodil

A few of the pictures I took for my photography class. They came out really well! The recent camera I bought is a beast. If you know me (in my fics I use flower language a lot), you know that floriography is one of my special interests. So here is a little explanation behind the meaning of the Dafodill:

"Daffodils, also known as the Narscisus (after the myth of Narscisus, where my fellow mythology fans are?), is a flower that sprouts at the first sign of spring. They are known for their resilience as they survive the winter to pop out in spring. They symbolise rebirth and hope for this reason.

They grow here everywhere at this time of year, hence how I was able to take pictures of them. In Dutch, they are called Easter Flowers (Paas bloemen) and are synonymous with the holiday and are usually used in marketing here for this reason. With their spring theme, they also represent new beginnings. Modern symbolism after the Narscisus involves hope and joy, as yellow flowers usually signify happiness (whereas back in the day, they symbolised rejection or jealousy). In the past, a drooping narcissus could also be an omen of death if you saw one."

They have a fun shape. I used to call them trumpet flowers in my childhood, even though those are a different type of flower.

#flowers #flower language #photography #crossposted #flowers fuck yeah #daffodil #floriography

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mtkanna · 7 months

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nymph's dream & the narzissenkreuz institute

nymph’s dream provides a few insights into the narzissenkreuz institute, the narzissenkreuz ordo, and the people within. i’ve done my best to determine which artifact is about which person, and what their wider lore implications are.

the odyssean flower

the flower isn’t associated with any specific member just yet. instead, it acts as an overarching theme of the narzissenkreuz ordo, and thus represents separation and new beginnings. the ordo’s name roughly means “order of the daffodil cross,” where the daffodil is usually symbolic of new beginnings and rebirth.

if anything, the flower should be associated with cater—a hilichurl rogue who keeps a flower yet to bloom, a memory and a reminder both, and “the flower within one’s dreams will always remain in full and fragrant bloom.” if not that, then perhaps mary-ann, whose memory remains in a field of blooming sunflowers…

“...a shadow still fell over the kingdom…”

so. the cataclysm happens. the director and her sisters aim to “defeat the evil at its source,” which most likely means that they went to the sign of apaosha in sumeru; at the same time, basil elton takes the sponsian to fight elynas. the other members of the narzissenkreuz order are mentioned:

alain guillotin – “[seeks out] the path ahead using the secrets of machinery,” who established the institute for the development of more meka and to try and make khaenri’ahn technology work on the surface;

jakob ingold – the “journey beyond normal comprehension,” who took on abyssal secrets and now works independently, fulfilling his own agenda;

caterpillar – “some still reminisce endless over the afternoon adventures…” the wilted flower, who spent an unknown number of years imprisoned as atonement for his acts beneath narzissenkreuz…

wicked mage’s plumule

a feather from basil elton’s hat. the feather itself—the original—can be found in annapausis, and contains “the power to advance a story forward.” so, then: the feather was basil elton’s, and came from an unknown bird. as part of the games they played as children, basil entrusted the feather to mary-ann, who later gave it to ann.

the feather would finally “reach the source of that which caused the calamity of parting…” and then return “from whence it came.” the calamity of parting most likely means the events that took place within elynas, or could mean elynas itself—the cause of basil elton’s death, the place where mary-ann died and the narzissenkreuz ordo was eventually divided…

which leaves the question: how does the feather make its way to annapausis, in a part of the story that ann has yet to reach? is there a greater chain of ownership than basil elton → mary-ann → ann?

nymph’s constancy

the first paragraph refers to the doomsday clock in the narzissenkreuz ordo. “their circle will begin anew [...] until such a time [...] where nothing will.” there are broader links here to the ideas of the samsara—that everything can be repeated and observed, again and again, throughout teyvat. the narzissenkreuz ordo is just one microcosm of it.

the pocket watch’s owner was most likely carter scherbius. “a tiny champion who loved machines” describes both him and alain guillotin, but we know that alain lived to an old age and was able to retire—carter, however, died young and was assimilated into the narzissenkreuz consciousness, perhaps by falling into “the primordial liquid that dissolves all.” the enigmatic pages mention that the pocket watch was left behind, when carter was being “[processed for rebirth.]”

we know that those who die in the primordial sea are ‘preserved,’ and though they lose their bodies their voices are still there, and can be heard with enough exposure. since everyone in the institute—particularly jakob ingold—was involved in researching the primordial sea, that would explain the records which state that carter’s vocal cords were preserved, inasmuch as a consciousness can be.

the second half of the timepiece just details the helixsplit and circumstances of ann’s creation. it can be read in annapausis at the fountain with the statue of mary-ann in a fuller form. the most crucial detail is that lyris “plunged into a stagnant slumber [...] and so remained untainted.” while this could be talking about the narzissenkreuz consciousness, i think it could instead be about the tainted waters in fontaine following the cataclysm, that led to every oceanid either leaving the land or dying.

heroes’ tea party

this one doesn’t give as much lore information. it does say that mary-ann was deeply attached to basil elton, and confirms that she was the one basil gave the feather to. the new home being one that “would not see the light of either sun or moon” feels like an implicit connection to enkanomiya, which has the clearest sun/moon motif i've seen so far.

but!! the most important thing to me is the narzissenkreuz ordo itself. depending on your quest progression, one of i think five tracks can play? these all use the same motif based on a six note-structure, the simplest form of which is the track ‘nymph’s tea party.’ it can also be observed in ‘dream through the looking-glass’ and ‘rondeau des fleurs et des rapieres.’ this draws my favourite conclusion up: sure, we know that the narzissenkreuz institute and the narzissenkreuz ordo are connected (it’s very very obvious from name alone), but this shows that mary-ann, alain, and the other named characters were all familiar with and even friends with the ordo! isn’t that neat!

also, the motif featuring in rondeau… the roundel of flowers and swords, the daffodil & the holy blade… it’s interesting, i think. very interesting.

fell dragon’s monocle

rene de petrichor, who later became the oceanid narzissenkreuz, had a monocle through which “one might be able to see the future.” this could be how he derived the ‘world formula’ through which he determined the fate of the world and the moment of disaster; or it could be the ‘looking glass’ entrance to the other world, the mirror of the book of revelation.

the heroes’ “different (expedient) holy swords” suggests that several holy blades did exist. there are the two holy swords which the traveller finds within annapausis, one real and one false within the bounds of the story, and the ‘key’ that rene used to create his own oceanid. the traveller sought out the true blade; rene chose the most convenient one.

like they were when they were younger, rene is the dragon and alain guillotin is the knight, now hero. the dragon “falls into the chasm that dissolves all things” and thus becomes the dragon; rene says a lot of things that are familiar because of elynas, like mentioning the ‘amniotic fluid of the world.’ the hero also becomes consumed by “a kingdom powered by machines,” begun through the creation of the research institutes, that aimed to understand and recreate khaenri’ahn energy sources, but still had yet to succeed. the dragon is dead and holds all of the answers; the hero dies later and creates a legacy for himself, but even that cannot find what he seeks.

conclusions

right now, the doomsday clock is minutes away from midnight. the pieces of the ordo are coming together again: ann as a vestige of mary-ann and seymour one of alain, caterpillar a shadow of himself… i think the next step is the resurrection of narzissenkreuz/rene at the moment of disaster, to see the fruition of his own world formula. the monocle does indicate that he will be reborn one day, after all. and maybe amidst it all the traveller finds another holy blade—a key, through which the door to another world can be shut.

#tower of daffodils #genshin impact #genshin lore #1000 words of artifact analysis... oh no #please tell me if i missed anything!! i think i covered the important bits #but if i did't i'll go back and make edits #going to go reread the pages now. byebye

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flower-faerie-world · 5 months

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1/545 | one flower a day

Daffodil are symbols of new beginnings and rebirth. They're also the first flower to bloom at the end of winter, symbolizing the beginning of spring and the end of cold days.

I wanted to start this new series with daffodils, as a sign of hope that the dark days will pass, spring will come and we will meet again.

(It's also my birth flower ♡)

#flowercore #flowers #drawing #hand drawn #daffodils #sketch #symbolism #winter #spring 2024

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i-only-write-in-purple-ink · 1 year

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Day 2: Crown (12 Days of Writers Self Love)

I couldn’t decide which of two ideas I wanted to do more, so I did them both! Apologies if this got a little long. I really did enjoy writing these, this challenge is turning out wonderfully! Many thanks to @writeblrfantasy for creating it!

1. Hermitcraft Season 8, White Wings AU (main story here) 2. Hermitcraft Season 9, Third Life SMP

1. HC Season 8, White Wings AU

Tommy had seen many crowns in his lifetime.

The gem-encrusted crown of the SMP, first worn by Eret, and then George.

Ranboo’s humble diadem, studded with rough-cut rubies and emeralds mined by hand from the depths of the earth.

The golden spikes adorning the top of Sam’s Warden armor, fused to the mask he had worn more and more often.

Techno’s simple golden circlet, twin to Phil’s silver one, relics of an empire long past.

But he had never worn one of his own before now.

False measured out a length of copper wire before presenting it to Tommy with a wink. “It’s easier if you start with this.”

Gem taught him how to weave stalks of grass together, how to twist and braid the fragile stems around the wire until they formed something resilient, stronger. Something complete.

Stress regaled him with the meanings of different flowers, what made them grow the best, which ones were good for tea or scents or dyes. Under her careful eye he worked Queen Anne’s lace, lavender, daffodils, and yellow orchids into the strands of his masterpiece.

Iskall chuckled as he swept a lock of Tommy’s ivory hair away from his eyes. “Ready?” He asked, his organic eye twinkling with warmth as it darted around Tommy’s face. Tommy nodded, expression implacable, and Iskall placed the completed flower crown gracefully among his curls. The Swede examined his handiwork for a moment, tucking hair or flowers into place, before nodding in satisfaction.

Iskall picked up his own creation from the ground beside him, sporting purple asters and orange orchids, and crowned himself with a flourish. Tommy tilted his head, judging through squinted eyes. After a few seconds a small smile rose to his face, and he nodded in approval. It's good. I like it, he signed.

A small noise made them both turn to where Xisuma was seated on the soft grass, his crown of blue bellflowers and pink dahlias resting crookedly on top of his helmet. He was struggling to right it, but the mechanical axolotl gills on either side of his visor made it so that the woven headress kept slipping. “I guess I’m just not made for crowns,” he said good-naturedly when he noticed them looking, giving up the fight and leaving the flowers slightly off-kilter.

Perfect, Tommy signed to him, and the admin let out a surprised laugh. “Perfect? I suppose it does suit me. I’m a bit of derp even on the best of days.”

Tommy leaned back, and let the sun hit his face. Laughter danced in the wind as the Hermits delighted in the carefree summer day. He had never felt so far and yet so close to home.

-----

// Yes, I know these flowers wouldn’t all exist in the same climate as each other. But honestly this is Minecraft fanfiction so lower your expectations and let me have my dramatic flower symbolism :’D

// I really like that trope in fiction, I wish people did more of it. And can you tell I’m a sucker for found family? Lol

// Not me giving my headcanons for the DSMP crowns and forgetting all about the MCC champion team crowns. 💀 MCC is only sort of canon to this universe.... we can chalk it up to ww!Tommy never participating in MCC before, that’s only for the really famous competitive types like Technoblade and Grian. Yep. Definitely no plotholes here.

// Flower Meanings vvv

Tommy:

Queen Anne’s lace (safety, sanctuary, and refuge)

Lavender (purity, silence, serenity)

Daffodils (rebirth, new beginnings)

Yellow Orchids (new beginnings, friendship, joy)

Iskall:

Asters (love, wisdom, trust)

Orange Orchids (pride, enthusiasm, boldness)

Xisuma:

Bellflowers (affection, constancy, unwavering love)

Pink Dahlias (elegance, grace, kindness)

2. HC Season 9, 3rd Life SMP

Kingmaker. That’s what they called him.

Ren rolled the chess piece between his fingers, relishing the weight of the solid obsidian. It made a satisfying clack as he placed it back in its spot on the board. The black queen.

If he was the king, the ruler over the entire Hermitcraft server, then Bdubs would be his queen. He certainly wielded enough power; it was through Bdubs’ support alone that Ren won the crown. Bdubs was the one who built the Crastle for him, who was his advisor, defender, friend. His second-in-command, his right… hand….

Ren frowned, unease rising in his gut, a sudden chill burning the tips of his fingers. He curled his hands into fists on reflex. Something wasn’t right.

He rose from his throne with a growl and swept down the stairs from the royal dais, his cape billowing out behind him. His paws made no noise on the plush carpet running down the center of the throne room, keeping away the chill of solid stone.

“Sir BdoubleO? Your king summons you!” Ren called, his voice echoing through the empty stone halls. He waited a few moments, but only silence answered.

“Bdubs? Where are youuuuu….” His words bounced eerily off of the cavernous ceilings, echoing back as if mocking him. He hesitantly ventured down a hallway, turned, and was faced with an identical hallway. He followed it, but that only yielded another similar looking passageway. The next was almost exactly the same. And the next. Ren frowned. He hadn’t remembered there being quite this many corridors in his Crastle.

He followed more turns, traversed more corridors, calls going unheard and unanswered, until he realized he was well and truly lost. Ren stopped at a four-way intersection, glancing down each hall. They all felt familiar, but was that because they looked the same or because he truly recognized them?

Ren pulled his cloak tighter around himself, shivering. And when had it gotten so cold? He needed to tell Bdubs to install some sort of heating system in the castle, like magma blocks behind the walls or something. These were not livable temperatures, certainly not for a king.

Ren’s breath had begun to fog the air by the time he reached something that certainly didn’t belong: a set of arched glass doors, metalwork spiraling intricately across their frosted surface. The metal handles were bitterly cold, but they turned without protest as he pushed the double doors open.

Beyond lay a courtyard, dead branches hanging like corpses over flowerbeds full of dried leaves. A few inches of snow was dusted over everything in sight, drifting heavily in the corners and on the trees. Ren’s trepidation spiked. It was supposed to be summer on the Hermitcraft server, after all. And the Crastle didn’t have an interior garden.

He stepped out into the courtyard, bracing himself against the freezing gusts of air. His royal cape was woefully equipped to protect him from the full wrath of a winter’s wind. The harsh blasts died down into a biting breeze as he neared the center of the courtyard, snow crunching beneath his paws. Ren scarcely minded the cold as he stared wide-eyed at the centerpiece of this unnatural display.

A large stone altar rose from the ground, more of an elevated platform than anything else. Ren ascended its steps, captivated by the rough, indecipherable runes hewn deep into the surface. Lines had been cut straight across the top slab, radiating out from a shallow, bowl-like indentation at the middle. Blood channels, Ren realized with a growing horror. Blood channels that had clearly already been used.

A sudden growl had him tensing, ears lying flat and lips pulled back into a snarl. The sound seemed to emenate from every corner of the courtyard at once, circling as one would stalk prey. It was more than a threat. This was the hunting call of a predator.

Ren scanned the courtyard wildly, but there was nothing to see except a slate-gray sky bordered by gargoylic crenelations and the first few flurries of snowfall. The rumbling grew louder and louder, until the very air trembled before it. Oh, little wolf, the voice purred, smugly satisfied and impossibly deep.

“Who are you?” Ren shouted at the sky, hating the way his voice had gone high-pitched with fear.

The voice merely chuckled, the sinister whisper of a blade pulled from its sheath. Winter is coming, it intoned. And the crown weighs heavy.

Ren spun in place, breaths coming sharp and cold biting at his lungs. The voice was crushing him from all sides, pushing him down to his hands and knees on the cold, stone altar.

Do ye have what it takes to be KING, Rendog?

And Ren woke in his royal bedchambers, gasping for air and sheets soaked in sweat. His hands didn’t stop shaking for the rest of the day.

-----

// I am just now getting into the 3rd life fandom (yes, a year late) and holy cow I love the Red King so much!! Big kudos to dog at the door by fluffy_papaya and iamsolarflare for getting me hooked on Ren’s lore, it’s one of my favorite fics ever.

// For the voice, have you heard the voice of the Old God N’Zoth from the Warbringers short? Yeah, that but with a hint of Scottish accent. Very dark and powerful-sounding.

Deal? I like deals.... *eldritch laughter*

- N’Zoth the Corruptor

#12 days of writers self love #hermitcraft #white wings au #eburnean #eburnean tommy #hermitcraft season 8 #hermitcraft season 9 #third life #3rd life smp #the red king #rendog #fanfiction #why is this so much easier to write than regular chapters #happy december y'all

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kittytheartist · 2 years

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Tbhk volume 15 cover flower symbolism💮

Volume 15 had some very important flower symbolism so here is my post on it, I love flower language a lot, and have only made one other post about it so here we go again

volume 15 cover. | not special edition.

volume fifteen takes place after the severance and Nene, Kou, and Akane are dealing with the back lash.

the flowers shown are

Daffodils

and Marigolds

apologies if I mess up or miss anything this is done by pure research by myself.

•°Daffodils~💛

Daffodils are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, so they represent new beginnings, and the manga isn't far off from spring in the beginning to now. they represent forgiveness and rebirth.

Daffodils are also used for uncertain love, chivalry, or respect, like the respect shown in the volume between our cast.

they also mean resilience and hope for anew. even through storms Daffodils would hold strong, and still look just as bright as before. they can also represent self love or a journey towards it.

Daffodils symbolize memories similar to how we see them miss what they no longer have. Nene having the memories of Aoi and Hanako. and Akane, although we haven't gotten much on Kou, he seems to have a lot of feelings regarding this and is shown on the cover.

I couldn't say I could connect the Greek myth of Narcissus but I didn't look too much into it so I don't really know. (although I know Narcissus are TECHNICALLY not Daffodils but are almost the same and the breed/genre of the plant flower basically meet so...)

orange Daffodils represent courage to bypass the hardships, wish for wellness, enthusiasm, friendship or a relationship of some kind, and overcome a new challenge. it can also represent betrayal, or the betrayal Jesus had before his Crusifixition

•°Marigolds~🧡

Marigolds are used as offerings to mother Mary instead of coins on her alter, they can be given to the dead as an offering. and are derived from the straight sentence "Mary's gold". and since these can be related to gold or riches, Victorian symbolism can also mean "a want for riches" or a desire for something.

Marigolds are related to many cultures. and in most of those cultures they are used to symbolize the sun or the powerful strength of a God ect. also linked to the powerful light that lives within a person, their own strength, or passion.

Marigolds can also mean despaired love, or hopeless love. it can be used for someone that lost the person they love, wether through death or a breakup, maybe a rejection, so they're not the best gift flower. it can be given to the dead as an act of rememberance or love. so they can be commonly found at grave sights!

as we all know orange can represent true happiness, a bond, trust, energy, love (of every kind) and strong emotions, when it comes to emotions it doesn't necessarily have to be good ones, it could be anger, and that would be portrayed as orange.

Marigolds were also used for herbs and medicine. and were taken across sea quite a lot. so Marigolds were used to help being struck by lightning. also given or used for "one who wishes to cross a body of water safely" similar to our gang going to cross the far shore and wanting too in the navigation arc.

they even naturally grow in wet habitats and find it the most natural place. they represent a want for change.

Marigolds are also a symbol of hope and as much as they can be a questionable gift, are perfect for those who are grieving over a lost loved one. it is a strong sign of comfort in Japan.

also latin for "little clock" I believe? which may corespond to how much time Nene has left on her life span, or the amount of time left to go to the far shore.

in Mexico they are very important to The Day of the Dead. Marigolds are believed to draw in the spirits of the Dead with their vibrant colors, and are known as an honorable flower for mourning and the dead.

Marigold flowers are the official flower of a Sagittarius, I won't go on about Zodiac signs but yk

they are also the official October flower.

———

and both these flowers are amazing for Chinese new years, so it could be representing the festival arc considering that was the peak of all the characters and how happier they were. and both flowers represent good fortune and luck, mainly in Chinese culture.

okay that's all for this I hope this was okay I know it's generic and has kinda been done before but I recently got the translation of volume fifteen and have already been thinking about making a post on the cover

but this wasn't anything too fancy but whatever hope you enjoyed♡

#tbhk #jshk #toilet bound hanako kun #jibaku shonen hanako kun #jibaku shounen hanako kun #jshk manga #tbhk manga #tbhk volume 15 #tbhk symbolism #jshk symbolizm #tbhk analysis

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floralallure · 9 months

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Flowers That Represent Hope and Resilience

Flowers have long been cherished for their beauty, fragrance, and the emotions they evoke. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, certain flowers hold special significance, representing hope and resilience in the face of adversity. In this article, we will explore five exquisite flowers that symbolize these qualities, curated by the renowned floral experts at Floral Allure Flowers & Gifts LLC. Whether you’re looking to send flowers in Dubai or seeking the perfect floral gift to convey a message of strength and optimism, Floral Allure’s flower shop is your ultimate destination.

Flowers of Hope: Symbols of Renewal and Optimism

Daffodil (Narcissus)

The daffodil, with its vibrant yellow hue and delicate petals, emerges as one of nature’s earliest signs of spring. Its ability to push through the frozen ground and bloom amidst the remnants of winter exemplifies resilience and hope. As a symbol of rebirth, the daffodil represents the promise of new beginnings and a brighter future.

Cherry Blossom (Sakura)

In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms are revered for their ephemeral beauty and the fleeting nature of life. The blossoms’ short-lived yet breathtaking display serves as a reminder that even the most delicate and fragile things can be sources of strength. By embracing the transient nature of cherry blossoms, we learn to appreciate each moment and find hope in the cyclical patterns of life.

Sunflower

As its name suggests, the sunflower seeks out the sun’s rays, always facing towards the light. This unwavering dedication to sunlight embodies the spirit of resilience and unwavering hope. The sunflower’s golden petals and imposing height stand as a testament to the human capacity to overcome obstacles and thrive even in the harshest conditions.

Iris

The iris, with its intricate and diverse range of colors, symbolizes the many facets of hope and faith. Its name is derived from the Greek word for “rainbow,” which reflects the flower’s connection to the bridge between earth and sky. The iris represents hope through its ability to adapt to various environments, much like a person’s resilience in adapting to life’s challenges.

Rose

The rose, a universally cherished flower, holds various meanings depending on its color. The yellow rose, in particular, is associated with friendship and new beginnings. As a flower that transcends cultural boundaries, the rose is a powerful representation of the enduring hope and strength that love and companionship provide, making it a perfect choice for uplifting someone’s spirits.

Discovering Hopeful Blossoms at Floral Allure

Floral Allure, a premier flower shop specializing in flower delivery in Dubai, understands the significance of selecting flowers that communicate hope and resilience. Their expert florists meticulously curate arrangements that embody these qualities, allowing you to convey your heartfelt sentiments through nature’s most cherished creations.

Finding the Perfect Flower Gifts: Flower Delivery Dubai

Whether you’re separated by distance or simply wish to brighten someone’s day, Flower Allure’s flower delivery services in Dubai offers a seamless way to send flowers. With a few simple clicks, you can explore a wide range of thoughtfully crafted arrangements that speak volumes about hope and resilience. From elegant bouquets featuring daffodils and cherry blossoms to stunning sunflower displays, there’s a perfect arrangement for every occasion.

Send Flowers Dubai: Spreading Hope and Resilience

In a world that often presents challenges, the act of sending flowers in Dubai becomes a powerful gesture of hope and resilience. It bridges distances, uplifts spirits, and reminds us of the beauty that can arise from even the most challenging circumstances. Floral Allure’s commitment to creating arrangements that encapsulate these qualities ensures that each bloom holds a deeper meaning, making your gift more than just a bouquet — it becomes a symbol of strength and positivity.

Conclusion

Flowers have an incredible ability to communicate emotions and ideas without uttering a single word. Through the carefully selected blooms at Floral Allure, you can convey the timeless messages of hope and resilience. From the cheerful daffodils to the serene iris, each flower tells a story of growth, strength, and the unwavering spirit of overcoming adversity. So, whether you’re looking to send flowers in Dubai or seeking a meaningful way to express your feelings, remember that nature’s most exquisite creations are here to help you share messages of hope and resilience with those you care about.

#gift ideas #dubai flowers #flowers #florist #flower shop

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zenasflower · 1 year

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Flowers for Funerals

Flowers are one of the most common ways to show sympathy for a friend or family member. They can be in vases or in baskets and are usually sent to the funeral home.

Roses are a common choice for funeral flowers. White roses symbolize purity and innocence, while red ones evoke love and courage. Pink roses denote admiration and grace.

Chrysanthemums

In the United States, chrysanthemums are one of the most important flowers for funerals arrangements. These are largely considered cheerful flowers, although in certain European countries and cultures they symbolize mourning and grief.

They come in a wide variety of colors, including white, pink and yellow. They can be found in fan spray tributes, which are classic arrangements for a funeral service.

They also symbolize purity and innocence, making them ideal for the funerals of children or close friends. You can also send them to the homes of those who have lost someone, as they are a sign of support during this difficult time. However, it is a good idea to choose flowers that convey the proper message, as some types and colors have specific meanings.

Gladioli

Gladioli are tall flowers – sometimes over 4 feet tall – that typically form a fan spray. They’re often used for funerals and can convey a message of strength, remembrance, sincerity, and moral integrity.

They’re also long-lasting and fragrant, which makes them a good choice for sympathy bouquets or standing sprays. They can also carry a meaning of respect and admiration depending on their color.

Azaleas symbolize femininity and are popular in floral arrangements for women who have passed. Magnolias are known for their nobility and represent perseverance. Chyrsanthemums express fidelity and deep love even in the face of death, while forget-me-nots represent true friendship. Finally, tulips and daffodils are symbolic of Spring and new beginnings. The meaning behind these flowers can give hope to the family during this heartfelt moment.

Carnations

Symbolic flowers are a powerful tool for conveying sympathy to grieving friends and family. Whether you choose lilies, chrysanthemums, roses or carnations, they each have profound messages to express your sympathies for the loss of your loved one.

A popular choice for funerals, white lilies symbolize purity and the rebirth of the soul. The tulips and daffodils that can also be found in floral arrangements for funerals help the family members to remember that their sorrow will eventually give way to new life.

Chrysanthemum flowers or simply “mums” represent sincerity and loyalty to the deceased. They are the most suitable flowers to send when you want to show remembrance of a friend who has passed away. Dainty forget-me-nots imply that the person will always be remembered in your thoughts and that you will never forget them.

Daisies

Flowers are an important part of the funeral process. They convey a message of love and compassion to those who are grieving, and can help them find hope and strength.

When choosing the right flower for a funeral, consider the relationship you had with the deceased. You want to convey your sincere condolences, and you also want to make sure you're respecting the life of the person who passed away.

Gladiolus are a great choice for mourning a family member or close friend, as they symbolize strength and character. The tropical hibiscus flower is another good option, as it symbolizes a true friendship. Finally, the white daisy symbolizes purity and innocence, making it a good choice for funerals of children or young adults. White roses are also a popular choice for funeral flowers, as they symbolize love and grief.

Orchids

Orchids are a symbol of enduring love in many cultures, and they're often used to convey sympathy. They are available in many colors and can be incorporated into bouquets or other floral displays.

Orchid plants are also a good option when you want to send a lasting gift that's still beautiful even after the funeral. Choose a potted plant like the hydrangea in our Beautiful in Blue bouquet to give the family a reminder of their loved one for years to come.

Roses are another popular choice for funeral flowers, as they represent a wide variety of emotions. Red roses can convey love and respect, while white roses symbolize innocence and humility. Pink roses can indicate remembrance, and yellow roses denote deep friendship. Chrysanthemums are also common at funerals, as they represent truth and honesty. They come in a wide variety of colors, including purple and pink.

#flowers for funerals #Flowers for funerals in Liverpool #Sympathy flowers #Sympathy flowers Liverpool

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my-reference-notes · 1 year

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Symbolism of Spring

Spring is a season of rebirth, renewal, and growth. It symbolizes new beginnings, youth, and hope. The blooming of flowers and the return of birds and other animals are often seen as symbols of rejuvenation and fertility.

Rebirth and Renewal: With the arrival of spring, plants begin to bloom, trees start to grow leaves, and the natural world comes to life again after the dormant winter season. This symbolizes rebirth, expansion, and new opportunities. This can represent a fresh start, a chance to begin again, and the opportunity for growth and transformation. It symbolizes the cycle of birth, fertility, and renewal.

Fertility, Growth and Abundance: As the weather warms up and plants begin to bloom, spring is often associated with abundance and renewal. This can represent the renewal of energy, creativity, and motivation, as well as the opportunity to pursue new goals and aspirations. This can represent a fresh start, a chance to begin again, and the opportunity for growth and transformation. Spring is traditionally associated with fertility and abundance. The blooming flowers, buzzing bees, and chirping birds are all signs of fertility and growth. This can represent the potential for growth and abundance in all areas of life, from relationships to career and personal development.

Youth and innocence:Spring is often associated with youthfulness and innocence, as the world seems to come alive again after a period of dormancy. This can represent a sense of hope and optimism for the future. Spring is often associated with a sense of youthfulness and vitality, as the world begins to come back to life after the winter. This can represent the energy and enthusiasm needed to pursue new challenges and opportunities.

Balance and harmony: In many cultures, spring is seen as a time of balance and harmony, as the world begins to come back into alignment after the harshness of winter. This can represent a sense of peace and harmony in one's own life, and a feeling of connectedness to the natural world.

Love and Romance: Spring is often associated with love and romance, as it is a time when people feel more social, optimistic, and open to new relationships.

Hope and Optimism: The longer days, warmer weather, and abundance of new life in spring can bring a sense of hope and optimism. It symbolizes the possibility of new beginnings and positive change.

Overall, the symbolism of spring is often associated with growth, renewal, and new beginnings, and can represent a sense of hope and optimism for the future.

Symbols Associated with Spring

There are several symbols associated with spring, which is often seen as a season of renewal, growth, and rebirth. Here are some common symbols associated with spring:

Flowers: Flowers are one of the most iconic symbols of spring, representing the blooming of new life after a long, dormant winter. Flowers such as daffodils, lilacs, tulips, cherry blossoms, and daisies are often associated with spring, symbolizing beauty, vitality, and growth.

Eggs: Eggs are often associated with spring, as they symbolize new life and fertility. In many cultures, eggs are used as a symbol of rebirth and regeneration, and are often associated with spring festivals and celebrations.

Rain: Spring is known for its rainy weather, and rain symbolizes the cleansing and renewal of the earth. It also represents fertility and growth.

Rainbows: Rainbows are often associated with spring, as they are formed when sunlight shines through raindrops in the air, and are seen as a symbol of hope, renewal, and positivity.

Greenery: As plants start to sprout and trees begin to bud during spring, greenery is often seen as a symbol of new life, renewal, and growth. Green leaves and grasses are commonly associated with spring, symbolizing vitality, freshness, and rejuvenation.

Seeds: Spring is the time when seeds are planted and begin to grow, symbolizing new beginnings, growth, and potential.

Sun: The return of longer days and warmer weather during spring is often associated with the sun, which symbolizes light, warmth, and energy. The sun is often seen as a symbol of vitality, power, and life.

Butterflies: Butterflies are often associated with spring due to their transformation from a caterpillar to a butterfly, which symbolizes metamorphosis and rebirth. Butterflies are also seen as symbols of beauty, freedom, and grace.

Birds: Birds are often associated with spring, as they return from their migrations and begin nesting and singing, symbolizing the return of life and vitality to nature. Birds such as robins, swallows, and hummingbirds are commonly associated with spring.

Rabbits: Rabbits are often associated with spring as they are known for their reproductive abilities and are seen as a symbol of fertility and new life. They are also often associated with the idea of abundance and prosperity, which are commonly associated with the season of spring.

Lambs: Spring is the season of new birth, and lambs are often born during this time. They represent innocence, purity, and new life.

Bees and ladybugs: Bees and ladybugs are often associated with spring, as they are considered beneficial insects that help with pollination and pest control in gardens. They are seen as symbols of industriousness, abundance, productivity, community, and good luck.

These are just a few of the symbols associated with spring, and their meanings may vary depending on cultural and personal interpretations. Overall, the symbols of spring often reflect the themes of renewal, growth, and new beginnings associated with this season.

#Symbolism of Spring #Symbolism #Symbols Associated with Spring

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sussex-nature-lover · 1 year

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Sunday 5 March 2023

For Christmas I received a large and beautiful hardback book which contains a nature poem for every day of the year. I’ve got to admit that I’m not a poetry person and up to now at least, I’ve found the content extremely challenging, so the gift giver, Ms Nature Watch the elder, threw down the gauntlet and said, can you do better?

Well, I won’t say better, but I can do different, a present-day take on the same title and so I chose to write one poem for the birthday of each person close to me. The first in the year is my late father’s birthday.

Forever associated with spring, daffodils are a welcome sign that warmer days are ahead. An inspiration to artists across the centuries and entangled in myth and symbolism, there’s much more to these bright and cheery trumpets than meets the eye. I found an article with some fascinating and unusual facts about one of our most popular springtime blooms. It was published by the seed and bulb sellers, Suttons, so thanks to them for the following.

What do daffodils symbolise?

Daffodils are among the first flowers to appear as spring approaches, so it’s no surprise that they’re the birth flower for March as well as a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings. But daffodils have also represented many other ideas over the years. The Victorians, for example, considered them the flower of respect and friendship.

Traditionally given on a tenth wedding anniversary (I never heard that before) florists often add daffodils to these celebratory bouquets as a symbol of faith, joy and happiness. However, in days gone by, presenting someone with a single daffodil was seen as bad luck, while observing a bloom as its head drooped used to be thought to herald death. I never heard of that either, but then I’ve never known of anyone give a single daffodil to anyone.

That apart, daffodils remain primarily associated with hope. At the start of 2020 they were the inspiration for David Hockney’s daffodil artwork. Drawn on an iPad during the first COVID-19 lockdown, the piece was titled: ‘Do Remember They Can’t Cancel The Spring’. You can also see it here at The Art Newspaper.

Daffodils as medicine

Originating in the Mediterranean, daffodils are said to have been brought to the UK by Roman soldiers who used them for pain relief and wound healing. We know now that this is unlikely to have helped, as all parts of the daffodil are toxic and should not be consumed. Prolonged exposure to the sap can cause dermatitis.

That said, daffodils do contain the compound galantamine, which has been found to slow the progression of dementia symptoms. In certain parts of the UK, like the Black Mountains in Wales, daffodils are grown specifically to produce a treatment for Alzheimer’s. How incredible.

It’s very fitting that the daffodil is the national flower of Wales and is proudly worn on 1st March to celebrate St David’s Day.

Daffodils in poetry

We’re all familiar with the poem ‘I Wandered Lonely As A Cloud’, William Wordsworth, having taken a walk in the Lake District with his sister Dorothy, describes his feelings upon seeing ‘a host of golden daffodils’ growing at the edge of a lake. A lesser-known fact is that the poem was also inspired by his sister’s journal entry, and that the middle two lines of the final stanza were written by Wordsworth’s wife, Mary Hutchinson.

The Cornish daffodil industry

Bunches of daffodils have been sold in the UK for hundreds of years, but commercial farming of the flowers really took off in the late 19th century, courtesy of Cornish potato farmer William Trevellick. The daffodils around his farm on the Isles of Scilly bloomed much earlier than on the mainland, so he made use of the weekly freighter and the (then relatively new) Penzance to London railway link to get freshly-cut blooms to London within 48 hours of picking.

Island landowner Thomas Dorrien-Smith built on Trevellick’s idea by encouraging his tenant farmers to make bulb-forcing houses and transport boxes for the flowers, and also brought in different varieties to extend the flowering season. This in turn inspired mainland farmers to start planting bulbs, and the world’s largest daffodil grower, Varfell Farm, is still in operation today in Penzance, Cornwall.

Establishing the difference between ‘daffodil’ and ‘narcissus’ seems to cause confusion (throw ‘jonquil’ into the mix if you want to increase the head-scratching). To clear this up, daffodils and jonquils are the common names of spring-flowering bulbs that are members of the genus ‘Narcissus’ (the botanical Latin name for this group of plants)

Daffodils in Greek mythology

The name ‘Narcissus’ comes from a Greek myth about a hunter who spurned all romantic advances and then fell in love with his own reflection in a pool of water. Unable to tear himself away, he died and a narcissus flower grew where his body had been. The way that daffodil heads tilt towards the ground is said to mimic Narcissus dropping his head to gaze at his reflection. This story is also the origin of the term ‘narcissism’, which describes someone who is selfish, overconfident, and obsessed with their personal appearance.

Wild daffodils (Narcissus pseudonarcissus) are sometimes called Lent Lilies, as they commonly bloom and die back between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. There are over 50 species of narcissus in existence and thousands of hybrids and cultivars. They come in a wide variety of colours, shapes and scents and I’ve never met one I didn’t like. Our own are slow to bloom compared to other local areas. I’ve seen lots of vibrant patches along with the snowdrops and odd drifts of crocus. We’re officially in meteorological spring now, even if the weather doesn’t seem to agree with that. Roll on Spring proper please

#daffodils #flowers nature spring

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