Shamrocks, Green Beer and the Little People

   Well, if it isn’t March again. Time to not be thinking of the bedeviled year behind us, but of the potential for great times, fun and adventure ahead. At least, that’s what the Little People tell me. And, yes, those who know me, are aware that I communicate regularly with elves, gnomes, boggarts, an occasional faery now and again, and even leprechauns (if I am lucky enough). I am one of the local authorities on “unseen beings” (self proclaimed, of course, as most of us are). March is one of my favorite times of year. It might be a bit too chilly here in Colorado to go out hunting “unseen beings,” but it is the best time to study up on their habits and habitats. Also, a great time to plan a faery garden complete with a faery cottage, faery doors, and gates, etc.    Once upon a time, people all over the world believed in faery folk. These nature spirits inhabited every living thing. It was rude and sometimes even dangerous to disturb their environment as retribution could be troublesome at the least and deadly at the most. Over time, humans decided they could control Nature and so began the destruction we are attempting to cope with today…a topic I have not nearly enough space here to address. Recently however, a resurgence of interest in folk and faery lore has begun…and none too soon, I might add. Hopefully, this will encourage an interest in preserving and restoring “wildlife” areas.

   On these blustery March days, I would suggest perusing some gnome tomes for your education and entertainment. Though a few of these might be hard to find, they are well worth the search: Gnomes by Rien Poortvliet and Wil Huygen, Faeries by Brian Froud and Alan Lee, Good Faeries/Bad Faeries by Brian Froud, and The World Guide to Gnomes, Fairies, Elves and Other Little People by Thomas Keightley.

   On those sunny days through March 20, trust me you can find gnomes in Florence. Come take a look! *Remember Covid Restrictions apply.

   Gnomadic Adventure in Fremont County

   Find the gnomes and elves hiding in Florence, Canon City and Penrose in participating shops throughout Fremont County. Take a selfie with the Little People you find. Look for information and instructions on Facebook at Fremont First or Fremont360. Over 40 Gnomes!! Win great prizes!!