Seeing Macro.....Macro Mondays!

Blogs have taught me many things, but two main aspects are 1) how fascinating they can be with so many amazing folks out there posting remarkable things, and 2) how there are never enough hours in the day right now for me to do all I want to do. 

I took a quick jaunt today amongst some of the blogs I'm following and the great images that come into play on Cloudberry inspired me to participate and reflect.  This creative mother of four posts super pics of her home in Troms, Norway and the day-to-day progress she makes in so many areas.  Today is "Macro Mondays" on her blog--and a beautiful close-up shot of some crocheting she's doing.  I clicked on the link and found that Macro Mondays started in 2008 and seems to be sponsored by Lisa at Lisa's Chaos.  What gorgeous images this woman shares as well!  Take a look. 

So here's my contribution to Macro Mondays:

This beautiful Lenten Rose blossom survived the snowfall of last week and the drastic shift we took from degrees in the 60s to the 20s and then back again.  It's spring outside for sure, and this sweet blossom had many companions that now completely fit the season....Lent.  On the backside of these petals is a soft lavendar and green mix--such a gift!

So what's the reflection?  Well, this homing-in on a closeup of detail that may just well go unnoticed highlights the enormous contrast in our social culture today and often in my life.  I am--we all are--surrounded by images, bombarded by details, innundated with information and the day may pass without our being engaged or thoughtful on anything that has presented itself.  I'm really holding the mirror to myself here because it was my daughter and grandson that initiated the moments it took to take this picture. I was outside with them, enjoying the sunshine, listening to their laughter, snapping pics of their fun, and seeing these blossoms--what a gift!  Just the evening before, all my daughters and my son-in-law sat relaxing around the dining room table, full of great food and having great conversation and spirited debate.  Another gift--time enjoyed with sincere exchange.  Let me tell you, that's the stuff life is made of!  The evening passed just as swiftly as will this beautiful bloom--by the next afternoon, my kids were gone back to their homes and the pace of busy days.  I share that pace, and while I long to have more time with them all, I have to remind myself I knew these days were coming--the ones we raised them to meet when they would be building their lives. 

I love this Lenten Rose and it's quiet beauty that reminds me this is the season of life.  Its stems sway gently below a massive maple whose limbs are still bare.  Whether I notice or not, this perennial flower grows and brings beauty.  I believe I need to notice....and more often.  As the days warm, that spot will be a great one to take some reading or knitting and be still for a bit, to listen, to see, to think, to hear the laughter again, and to see the details.