Look at the Little Things

We've all heard the saying, "one person's trash is another person's treasure". Dandelions are kind of like that. We have created a culture of manicured lawns and these amazing weeds aren't really welcomed there. But recently I watched a time-lapse video of these beauties as they transformed from flower to seed and man was I impressed. Impressed AND reminded of the absolutely amazing way nature works. Which is something to behold....if we take the time to look.

And that's a BIG if there. My kids happily pick these "wish flowers" every time we come across them. The seeds stick to their lips as they try to blow every last one into the air. As soon as they started to appear on our lawn this spring I began talking about the fact that they were weeds, flowers, medicine, and food all at once. They fell in love.

We made dandelion butter for the first time this season. Just a small batch from what we harvested from the yard. But it was such a simple yet beautiful (and tasty I might add) way to build an authentic nature connection. It couldn't have been easier. Get the recipe here ~

The kids go out collecting flowers and dandelions always bring smiles. There was a field of them near my son's soccer practice and my daughter spent the evening rolling around in the "wildflowers". A big hit : )

All this to say, that something so simple and so overlooked can bring so much joy and wonder. How many little things do we dismiss every day because society has taught us to keep walking or racing to the next best thing?

Slowing down with kids can be frustrating at times. Especially when we are trying to get something done or have a particular timeframe, etc. But I've noticed that it doesn't take much to highlight the small stuff. It doesn't take much, time, energy, or know-how to get to know your yard or neighborhood plant and wildlife a bit better.

It's so worth it too. Knowing that chickweed, dandelions, wild onions, plantain and wild strawberries are growing in our yard makes every day a treasure hunt for sure. it also highlights the fact that the earth gives so much if we take the time to appreciate it. And that is a life lesson that I simply cannot overlook and must pass on to my kids.

So next time you are out, look down. Do you know the name of tha t weed you just picked? Do you know why you keep seeing those little white flowers along the back fence? Is the onion smell after you mow the lawn there for a reason? Is anything in your yard offering free homemade remedies?? : )

Become a bit of an investigator and you will soon learn that nothing is what it seems at first glance. Kids know this already but I think as we grow we forget. But take a moment...for you and for your kids to build the small habit of looking at the little things. Those little things can quickly grow into so much more.