Just thoguht we might enjoy and need some sunshine today, what with the concerns etc. about 'Spaw. Rick Fielding and I talked about this last Monday, on his show (see the thread about his radio show for more info). Anyway, I am reminded this is a day for joyfull celebration that the earth is now ready for seed planting and we can look forward with anticipation to a good harvest.

It is a good day to bring about positive chnages in your life, by symbolically leaving behind, in the flames of the fire (if you go in for that!), any concerns, negativitys, etc. Couples who want to renew their relationships find this a good time for symbolic gestures of change.

When I am with a group, we usually have a maypole dance. Last year it was around a stalwart young tree, only about 12 feet tall, with mostly bare branches, as in Wyoming the tulips are just now bloomin' and we still could get snow anytime. We had an altar, made from a table, with fresh flowers, fruit juice, bread, and symbols of the Earth Mother on it. We each took turns "leaping" over a very small fire, shouting out that which we wished to leave behind and release from our lives. After the dancing and weaving of the ribbons, the tree looked so bright and lovely, with the wind teasing the "tendrils" of its "ribbonhair". We then joined hands and sang some songs for the Earth.

This year, today will be quieter, people are scattered and busy. But, I shall find time to brush my hands a'top the tender shoots of wild mountain mint in my garden and smell the freshly turned earth, to listen to the bright and thrilling trills of the meadowlarks with their brilliant yellow chests, and give thanks for all that we have, all that we give, and all that we receive. I will give an especial thanks for all of you, the Mudcat and its creators and, our dear Catspaw.

How will you be spending your MayDay?

katlaughing