Happy St David's Day!

In my opinion there is no better sign that Spring is on its way than the riot of colour created by daffodils in the garden at this time of year. They may not be the most elegant of flowers but they are certainly one of the most cheerful.

I spent some time yesterday evening knitting this rather pretty daffodil in honour of St David's Day today. This morning some of my time has been spent adding the image to my social media and wishing everyone a Happy St David's Day, and then it occurred to me that I know nothing at all about the Saint, and why we associate these colourful blooms with Wales and it's patron saint.

A quick trawl of the internet revealed that David was born in Wales in 500AD on top of a cliff during a storm. He led a simple and devout Christian life in a monastery. He rose to become a bishop making a pilgrimage to Rome. One miracle associated with David is said to have taken place when he was preaching to a large crowd at Llandewi Brefi. When the crowd couldn't hear him the earth rose in to a mound to lift him above the crowd enabling his voice to reach everyone. He died in 589.

There doesn't seem to be a definitive reason as to why the daffodil is associated with Wales and St David's Day. It may be because this fabulous flower is always in bloom at this time of the year welcoming the Spring or it may be because the Welsh words for leek and daffodil are similar. Leeks are the more traditional symbol of Wales but the Daffodil rose in popularity in the 18th century and has been adopted as a national symbol ever since.

In flower folklore it is associated with energy, rebirth and is considered to be uplifting. I couldn't agree more to me it's a cheerful reminder that Spring is just around the corner. They also make a fun knitting project - Happy St David's Day everyone!