A: Alligators All Around

For those of you who read the blog, you've noticed that I've paid special attention when animals come into my my life in a new or unusual way. Alligators/crocodiles have been following me lately--I saw many in Costa Rica in December, and this past weekend, I was face to face with this fellow in the Florida Everglades:

And saw all of these from above:

And my brother and sister in law got me a whole set of Lacoste towels for my birthday (whose logo is, of course, an crocodile). Color? Alligator green, of course!

I read online that Alligators symbolize "the beginning of a new period and the death of the old. Knowledge is transformed by a new level of growth, hidden wisdom awaits. Alligator can teach you ancient knowledge that is currently hidden and gives strength to create your own opportunities. These guardians and protectors of wisdom will show how to move in the waters of the Self. Are you seeing things as they are and not what they appear to be? Are you consumed by the knowledge you are becoming unbalanced with meditation and quiet time? Alligator's breathing awareness will help in balancing out transformations."

Hmm. I do suppose I've been transforming for the past year and a half, certainly. The teeth are merely the most outward and obvious example of this. I do feel that Spring is coming despite forecasts of yet more snowstorms. I saw crocuses being sold for the first time today being sold in my local shop. I can feel warmth in the air despite the wind. I'm so deliciously curious to see what's going to happen in the coming months. If it's half as beautiful as these Spring photos, I'll consider myself lucky.