Leaf Lines

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Each leaf grows like a sketch. 

First, there is the single line of the petiole, which then morphs into a rib.

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Soon, more ribs branch out from the main one, tracing beautifully etched patterns.

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We can not see the artists’ hand, yet every leaf grows steadily into an exquisite work of art.

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Although no two are quite identical, we can see themes and variations on this intricate bio-dynamic meme of a living, growing leaf.

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Our garden is our gallery, and July offers the most perfect opportunity to enjoy countless compositions of leaves in growth.

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We can find most any leaf we can imagine, in a rainbow of colors.  Toothed edges grow on some, while others sport a wavy fringe.

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Large and small, lobed and smooth, striped, speckled, or solid; all leaves begin with a single living line.   A dynamic line transporting the juices of life; conducting the magical elixir of growth.

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Woodland Gnome 2015 

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Inspired by the Daily Post’s Weekly Photo Challenge: Close Up

WPC: Close-up

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“This week, discover the hidden details that can only be seen up close.”

The Daily Post

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How many intriguing sights do we pass each day, blind and unaware of their beauty? 

It takes concentration and time to take in the details.  How often are we rushing and distracted in our daily lives?  Often, we feel rushed and perhaps a little ‘absent minded’ as we juggle the many responsibilities of a normal day.

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This challenge asks us to spare a few moments for mindfullness; to take the time to focus on the details already around us.  While the camera brings the world into focus, we have the opportunity to simply breathe. 

Our attention grows more focused as the field of view contracts.

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When there is no time to take a break ‘away,’ we can take a break ‘within.’  Without traveling, we find a new landscape, and perhaps discover a new horizon within our own mind.

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Each time we look ‘close up,’ our vision widens to the worlds within worlds of our everyday life; just as it already is.

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Photos by Woodland Gnome 2015

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“He who knows others is wise;

he who knows himself is enlightened.”

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Lao Tzu

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