It is also going to be the start of yet another photography challenge. I’ve decided yesterday that while I’m going to try to do another 365 day photography challenge, the main rule will be all pictures have to be from this year forward with a few exceptions (such as way-back Wednesdays, throw-back Thursdays, and flash-back Fridays).

So every day (hopefully) will be a ‘new’ picture for 2021-forward, unless on Wed/Thur/Fri I can’t decide on a ‘new’ picture and decide to do a ‘older picture’ from 2020-earlier.

Did you know that April 5th is also National Dandelion Day?

While many people consider dandelions to be ‘weeds’ and invasive plants–it is actually an herb.

Dandelions have the ability to grow just about anywhere and can be found on every continent except for Antarctica.

While they may ‘interrupt’ the esthetics of a manicured lawn–they actually have numerous benefits, such as being rich in vitamins A, B, C, and D.

The leaves of the flower are edible and have been used in both soups and salads.

The flowers have also been brewed into wines and teas as well.

Native Americans use the flower for medicinal purposes as well.

Some of those medicinal purposes can include reducing inflammation, aiding in digestion, boosting the immune system, regulating blood sugar, and possibly reducing cholesterol.

I remember picking numerous dandelions in middle school and learning how to make paper from them in art class–something I may try to do again this spring/summer as a fun little craft project.

We leave dandelions growing in our yard–in part to help the insects (such as honeybees), but also because they’re green and are helping to keep the dirt and dust from coming into the house. They hardy enough to handle dogs running over them constantly.

Do you see dandelions as a weed to be removed from the yard or as a flower/herb that grows where it wants?