I know spring is here when the ants start invading the house by the front door. They seem to love the corner where the front hall meets the powder room. It’s a favorite gathering spot from March into early fall. In general, the only creepy crawly critters permitted in the house are spiders. I’m one of the few people I know who actually like spiders because they eat other bugs. In other critter news, it’s National Panda Day. My training in wildlife biology should have prepared my mind for the knowledge that ants and pandas are equals in the web of life; they each have a place. And I know this, but I draw the line at critters that get into my food, stroll along my bathtub (the master bath is also a favorite spot), and find their way into personal things. I’m not yet enlightened enough to tolerate ants in the house, so while I’m developing that aspect of my being, in the meantime I’m afraid it’s “special” syrup for the ants. I would love to be able to tell them that down the street the neighbor’s yard is full of lovely crocuses and dwarf irises from which they sample the nectar.