Read by Amanda MacArthur

IIf you’ve ever wished for a garden brimming with luck, look no further than the ancient art of growing luck with the help of a leprechaun—especially the elusive and skilled female leprechauns. Contrary to their mischievous male counterparts, these seasoned, green-thumbed ladies possess a wealth of experience that spans millennia.

 
Planting the Seeds of Luck

To entice a leprechaun girl to join your gardening endeavors, you’ll need to capture her attention by becoming a protector of bees—an increasingly rare role in the face of pesticides and GMOs. Growing dandelions becomes the key to summoning these magical creatures. However, growing dandelions for luck isn’t as straightforward as maintaining a pristine yard.

Start by gathering exactly 13 poofy dandelion heads. Head to a hillside, as the magic is believed to work best in such terrain. Rather than picking off the seeds with your hands blow them away, making a unique wish for each one. Avoid shortcuts; be creative and thoughtful with each wish. It’s rumored that facing west into the sunset is the most auspicious direction, but the magic may work just as well facing south.

Wait patiently for about a fortnight—a magical period of 14 days or, perhaps, another nod to the powerful number 13. Your dandelions should soon blossom, attracting bees naturally.

 
The Arrival of the Leprechaun Lassie

When the bees arrive to indulge in the dandelions’ nectar, the scent of mint tea and cinnamon cookies will waft through the air—a sign that the leprechaun lassie is not far behind. Though invisible, you can follow her snores to locate her slumbering form.

To awaken her, softly sing, “Too ra loo ra loo ral…” and follow the sound of her gentle snoring. When you find her, handle her with care, picking her up by her little green apron and sweetly kissing her forehead. Politely ask for her assistance in your garden, ensuring you don’t let go of that apron, as these magical beings can dash off if given half a chance.

Once she agrees, express your gratitude, guide her to your desired fields, and watch as luck begins to bloom in your garden. From flourishing fruits and vegetables to vibrant flowers and mushrooms, you’ll not only harvest a bountiful crop but also bushels of good fortune. Remember to thank the leprechaun lassie generously, offering a sweet treat of honey—her favorite—for a job well done. ❖

 
About the Author: Ginger Strivelli is a prolific writer whose works span various genres and publications, including Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Fantasy Magazine, Autism Parenting Magazine, Flash Fiction Magazine, and several anthology books.