The day after Saint Patrick’s Day is an excellent one for catching a glimpse of remnants of leprechaun activity the night before. And what better than enlisting the help of little people in the quest for evidence of Little People? Trodding through the woods this morning, we weren’t disappointed by our findings.
Beneath some dried leaves we found some green wood sorrel, also known as shamrocks. Surely the leprechauns’ merrymaking coaxed them out of their sleep last night. They looked a bit limp, but the warmer days ahead should see them coming back to life again.
Melting snows have created numerous small vernal pools over the past couple of days. These provide temporary watering holes for wild creatures and excellent spots for leprechauns to catch a quick dip. One must have done just that by the light of last night’s moon. Could a surprise visit from a neighborhood cat have prompted him to leave so quickly that he forgot to take his jacket with him?
Of course nothing says spring like a bit o’green smiling in the sunshine. The heart-shaped moss we found on a birch tree was a delightful find, and surely a sign of creative activity by the Little People themselves. Although many will roll their eyes at the thought of leprechauns still roaming the woods, I find it hard to not believe when there’s so much evidence to the contrary. Spring and warmer days are ahead and surely that is something to smile about.
For your smile is a part of the love in your heart,
And it makes even sunshine more bright.
Like the linnet’s sweet song,
Crooning all the day long,
Comes your laughter so tender and light.
For the springtime of life is the best time of all,
With never a pain or regret.
While the springtime is ours,
Through all of life’s hours,
Let us smile each chance we get.~ When Irish Eyes are Smiling