Hmm...
Be The Fireworks
an interesting thought in light of our present situation.
In the early spring, when things were looking uncertain about whether we would be shopping at the garden centers, I ordered a butterfly bush online. Having never done that before I wasn't sure what to expect. It arrived looking healthy and has been thriving on the patio ever since.
While waiting for the butterflies to show up, I added this pretty plant stake to liven things up.
Just yesterday our first visitor arrived.
I was thrilled that it lingered long enough for me to snap a few photos.
After consulting my butterfly guidebook, I think it is a pipe vine swallowtail. There are several swallowtails that look similar, so I could be wrong about that.
You may see another guest on the lower portion of the bloom in the photo above. Are you familiar with that guy? He is an unwelcome guest and I'm not ashamed to admit that when I encounter them, they are dropped to the ground and stepped on. Squished... pulverized... take that Mr. Japanese Beetle!!
The butterflies have been showing up indoors too.
I felt a great sense of accomplishment upon putting the last piece in this beautiful puzzle.
My sister (Hi Norma) sent it to me as a gift quite awhile ago. She is an expert at putting together 1000-2000 piece puzzles. As for me, it had been years and years since I've done any. After doing two with 500 pieces, I decided to challenge myself a bit more. I won't set any speed records for finishing, but once things started coming together it was a wonderful way to pass the time at home.
I hope you are all staying well.
What's been keeping you busy lately?
How exciting to have the butterflies show up on your new bush!!
ReplyDeleteGreat photos!
I think of Norma and still pray for her. Not every day but every so often. How is she doing?
ReplyDeleteOh that shaped puzzle looks challenging. It sure is pretty.
I like the butterfly bush that is attracting butterflies. The lantana here might attract
butterflies except they don't like peppermint oil spray that I am using to get rid of unwanted
critters and bugs. I don't spray the plant, but the stairs have been sprayed and the basement walls.
Happy 4th! 🇺🇸
I love the dark purple of your Butterfly bush blooms. None of mine are anywhere near ready to bloom and I forget what colours I have. I hope one turns out to a dark one. Lovely butterfly. Although they are called Butterfly bushes mine mostly attract Hummingbirds.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice puzzle! Glad your butterfly bush is healthy and thriving.
ReplyDelete