Dandelion Wishes

Dandelion seed heads are a symbol of childhood.  I have memories of closing my eyes and blowing the seeds into the breeze each summer.  Recently, Kai has been making wishes with them too.

From Dandelion Watch

 If you ever wondered about this plant which most people dismiss as a weed, here are some interesting facts.  The name comes from the French term dent de lion which means tooth of a lion.  The jagged leaves are popular in salad and are high in calcium, iron and Vitamins A and C.

The white airy seed heads are a part of the life cycle of the common yellow dandelion.  According to Wildman, "Each seed has a tiny parachute, to spread far and wide in the wind."  

Before you decide to mow all the yellow flowers off your lawn, check out Universal Preschool and their list of fun ideas to make use of these whimsical flowers.  Better yet at your next dinner party, make a dandelion salad.