In my limited area walks, I have to find flora and fauna in a confined area. Plants are relatively easy as they grow anywhere they can take root. Unusual plants are a different story, however. I see few of them in the yard. Of course, I rarely see things like coyotes or bobcats in the garden or deer next to the steps but it would be nice to see something....anything! So I have to search...hard.
This afternoon, Mr. PJ decided to take a rest about 30ft from the doorstep. He had no energy to go up that mountain of steps even though I lift him. The task was daunting and he needed to contemplate the deed. So...I meandered in the garden a bit. It was there that I found my critter! In one of the empty pots, some beady eyes peered out at me from a curled oak leaf. Aha! Some tiny critter was spying on me and was hoping that I would not bother it!
After carefully examining the leaf and then photographing it, I found my critter to be none other than a tiny jumping spider. The critter had found its "house" to be quite comfy in this wet weather. The rolled leaf was positioned so rain would not enter and was deep enough in the black, plastic pot that it was protected from the wind. The tiny spider even had a back door for a hasty escape if necessary. After taking a few photos, I left the spider undisturbed and I took the tired dog inside.
It is simply extraordinary to think of how perfectly made each and everything on this world is made. I have yet to find anything that needs improvement. True, some things are not as aesthetically pleasing as others but, if you truly look at the detail, you can see the precision involved in the creation. It is that detail that makes things perfect.
This morning, I found a tiny lizard that had obviously been trapped for some time between the window and window screen. The poor thing was malnourished and dehydrated. I knew just what needed to be done as the lizard would soon die if not helped. My new found friend would reside in the greenhouse for the winter. There, it could find plenty to eat and drink plus be warm and snug. I caught the little fellow and headed out the back door. With my hands tightly cupped around the lizard, I was in no position to brush off a leaf that dropped from the tree and plastered itself on my face. I just had to "wear" the thing until the lizard was safely delivered into its new home. Once I was lizard free, the leaf was removed from my cheek. Wow! Perfection! Maybe I should have just left the leaf be and worn it for the entire day. It was gorgeous!
When you think about all of the wonders that surround us each day, it is astounding. A leaf...simple yet intricately designed just like every other bit of nature...flora and fauna alike. Folks, stop being in such a rush and take the time to admire...truly study...what is around you. Don't take any of nature for granted for tomorrow...it may be gone. One never knows.
