First Blooming

When I conjure up Spring in my mind's eye, it is the first crocuses I think of. In a nod to the turning year and a gesture of celebration, the ancient Romans scattered the first rain wet crocuses of Spring (and Autumn too) across their banquet tables like so many small vivid jewels.

I cannot bring myself to pick the crocuses in my garden, but every year, the appearance of these little wonders is something to celebrate in my own way, just by looking at them.