Magpies in folklore are surrounded by mystery and mysticism.  They are known as messengers of the animal kingdom, immortalised in the rhyme we all know, "One for sorrow, two for joy, three for a girl, four for a boy..." At the time of writing this I seemed to be surrounded by these colourful and highly intelligent characters as if they knew and delighted in the love and interest being shown them. I recall one particular day, as one magpie appeared to me, a problem had arisen at home. "You will have to send me another!" I told it recalling the rhyme. Sure enough, perfectly on cue, a second magpie appeared and, to my relief, the worrying situation resolved itself. Of course any number of magpies, with their wonderful plumage and personalities, is a blessing to any woodland or garden, but just in case and in honour of that ancient rhyme I bring you you "Two for Joy"!