The Flower Moon rises tonight...

"The moon, like a flower

In heaven's high bower,

With silent delight

Sits and smiles on the night."

William Blake

Continuing with my observance of full moons, tonight will bring us the Flower full moon of May. Spring is in full force, abundant with flowers shimmering under the watch of this rise. This name comes from the Greek goddess Maia, a virgin often associated with the wildflowers that blanket the hills of Crete.

Another name for the May full moon, Milk Moon, has a less obvious origin. Cows, goats and other grazing animals are able to find plenty of green pastures during this time of year, which helps them produce milk for their young born in the early spring. And in far northern countries without many crops until later in the summer, milk would be a major part of their diet this time of year. The Old English name for the month of May meant "the month in which cows can be milked three times a day!”  

Enjoy the rapturous combination of flowers and moonglow tonight, a special treat.

Art credit: rustymermaid