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Growing on the High Plains: May Baskets

With the first of May arriving this week, I thought it an apt time to pause and reflect on the historical traditions associated with the special day. From a Red Square affair to a celebration of weather fair, May Day has been associated with a variety of rites and rituals.

 
On today's Growing on the High Plains, we'll remember one such custom: building and bestowing floral May baskets to an unsuspecting neighbor. 
 
I have personal memories designing and delivering these merry surprises, though it seems their existence has faded in recent decades.
 
No matter. May this installment be a May Day gift, from me to you. 
 

Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.