May 1st is a special day in France. It's Labor Day, or "Laborer's Day," and so it's a holiday, a day off from work for everyone, with one major exception: florists. May 1st is also Lily of the Valley Day, and it's traditional to offer one's loved ones a sprig of lily of the valley, symbol of spring and of good luck, especially if the sprig has 13 bellflowers. And florists are very lucky because on this day they have the right to sell lily of the valley tax-free. Be careful: this beautiful flower and even the water it stands in are very toxic.
On May 1st, 1561, King Charles IX of France received a lily of the valley as a lucky charm. He decided to offer a lily of the valley each year to the ladies of the court. At the beginning of the 20th century, it became custom on the 1st of May, to give a sprig of lily of the valley, a symbol of springtime. It is also traditional for the lady receiving the spray of lily of valley to give a kiss in return. Now, people may present loved ones with bunches of lily of the valley.
Today, it's a bit grey out there, no rain as yet, still quite warm but miserable looking. Mr TK is getting on with the en-suite bathroom and it's starting to look really good.
So, fingers crossed it turns out OK!
Today, it's a bit grey out there, no rain as yet, still quite warm but miserable looking. Mr TK is getting on with the en-suite bathroom and it's starting to look really good. I've been preparing a nice meal for us tonight, it being May Day. So we are having:-
Starter:- Prawn and Avocado Feuillantine
Main:- Sauteed haddock with summer veg
Dessert:- Blackberry Cheesecake in a glass
So, fingers crossed it turns out OK!
Bonne Fête du Premier Mai!
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