patience

the seedlings have finally started developing grown-up leaves. these are leaves that, unlike the rounded baby leaves that first sprout from the ground, actually look like miniature versions of the eventual grown plant. i get excited when they develop because not only does it reassure me that the plant is healthy enough to keep growing, it also reassures me that the tiny seedling i've been nurturing is indeed the plant i want. until the grown-up leaves, i could easily be gently mothering any old weed. tiny cilantro leaves! and tiny squash leaves! oh, and it doesnt hurt that i love tiny things.