Happy May Day

lilac_clematis.jpg

clematismontana.jpg

wildbleedingheart.jpg

The first of May is historically and culturally more important in Europe than in North America, rooted in ancient pagan celebrations of spring sometimes mixed with some modern political overtones. I briefly indulge in some fond memories of some of the Finnish traditions I grew up with but no longer practice. Instead, I take sweet pleasure in the wild abandon and abundance of a long spring, the best time of year in this balmiest part of Canada.

Here are a few glimpses of what is in my backyard: lilac entwined with rampant clematis escaping from the fence behind it, and what I call wild bleeding heart that is everywhere for such a brief time, mixing with the bluebells and the lily of the valley… like a wild woodland garden.

I wish you all a Happy May Day, Hauskaa Vappua, Happy Walpurgisnacht and Bonne FĂȘte du Muguet!

Related links:
Traditional Finnish May Day, thanks to Arle

From my archives: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008

Missed 2009, for we were in the UK. In fact that was the fantastic day I met several blog friends!

May 1, 2010 in Culture, Home by Marja-Leena