The Magic of Teeny Tiny Things

I noticed the most incredible thing a few days ago, something that literally stopped me as I rushed down the porch steps toward the front yard. A teeny tiny viola was happily growing from the brick walkway in front of the house.

A volunteer flower.

Truly a wonder to me, volunteer flowers represent amazing determination as they often grow in less than ideal conditions.

There she was, so easy to overlook yet impossible to miss.

Miss Viola seemed proud standing smack dab in the center of the walkway, and I saw her as a reminder to slow down, notice, and breathe.

Oh, I noticed alright. I plopped down in front of her, took a whole bunch of pictures, and for a moment, my entire world paused for this unexpected gift. Yes, I may have talked to her too.

Do you recall the seedling Gracie Lee noticed growing from the floor of Boon Chapel? Gracie’s seedling was the first thing I thought of when I noticed this tiny volunteer viola growing from our brick sidewalk. (And if you don’t have any idea what I’m referring to, that’s okay—it’s been eight years since The Accidental Salvation of Gracie Lee was published.)

 

 

Life is so fleeting, isn’t it? I’ve been hyper-aware of this especially the past three weeks. A neighbor friend died unexpectedly leaving her husband reeling. Actually, everyone who knew her is reeling. A few days ago, my cousin’s husband passed away. I don’t remember a time before my cousin was married to him; his loss to the family will be great. And now, my husband’s uncle died; the service was yesterday.

So much sadness, as of late.

Still, there is goodness and life all around, and I am especially grateful for the magic of teeny tiny things that quietly provide much-needed reminders.

Teeny Tiny Miracles

These minuscule mushrooms that pop up after a rain shower are like garden umbrellas, so small they are easy to miss growing in the mulch. And, to see them is a good thing! It means fungi is breaking down all the valuable decaying matter. Congrats! Your soil is rich in nutrients.

Swallowtail caterpillars make me super happy! I plant dill and fennel just for them.

Hello, tree frog! Any day I notice a tree frog is a lucky one. Anyone need a prince? I already have one.💗

This next picture may not seem like anything more than a bent leaf, but oh my goodness, we are talking about pure garden magic right here! A folded over spicebush leaf is the sure sign that a spicebush swallowtail caterpillar is hiding. That’s what they do—they spin a web which folds over the leaf so they can hide during the day and venture out at night to feed.

I soaked a few moonflower seeds, planted them here and there, and so far only one has sprouted. But you better believe, I am celebrating it!

It’s easy to get down in the dumps when things seem sad, but spending time in nature is cathartic for me. Take the chickadee singing at sunrise—her small voice rising above the quiet morning reminds me that all is well.

Today let’s celebrate the magic of teeny tiny things, shall we?

Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life.

P.S. I’ve not forgotten about my June Sunday Letter, I’m just running behind. Look for it this coming Sunday…