Rainy days in August is quite unusual for us here in Virginia. Our family beach week proved that to be untrue. Though rain and the beach don't often go together, we still enjoyed time spent with our children, our grands and our nephew and his family.
Thunderstorms have been abundant since we returned home. Many large limbs have been pruned by the wind and heavy weight that rain brings. Last week found us cleaning up the garden. I noticed another large limb has fallen in the back and will need to be taken care of soon.
Between raindrops I've gathered rudbekia blooms for the dining table.
Looking outdoors there is much to observe.
The Hummingbird moth enjoys time gathering nectar at the buddleia. They are members of the Spinx Moth family (Sphingidae).
The buddleia is such a wonderful shrub to have close to a window to attract the wonders of nature.
The vinca on the patio is also attracting butterflies. Just when I thought we wouldn't be seeing many, they have come in abundance.
The Black Swallowtails are quite busy gathering nectar on the patio.
He is also the Virginia state insect (Papilio glaucus).
I love all butterflies, but I'm always honored when the Monarch visits my garden!
Please indulge me while I click away with my camera.
"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty." Maya Angelou
