Paul built this great Monarch Nursery for me this year, but it didn’t get much use. With Hannah returning to college earlier than usual, we didn’t get into caterpillar search mode the way we have in past years.

Yet, at the end of August, I found some caterpillars on the milkweed in my garden. It’s the second year it’s sprouted on its own, getting bigger and more established each year. I moved the caterpillars to the nursery.

By September 5th, they were pre-pupa.

On September 6th, they were at the pupa stage, which typically lasts about ten days before they emerge as butterflies. However, the temperatures began to drop, and four days later, we had a hard freeze. I’d been thinking about cleaning out the three chrysalis from the nursery.

And yesterday, our second 60 degree day in a row – after 35 days – I found two butterflies in the nursery!

I was thrilled and amazed. And then worried. The only food to eat left in my yard are a few dandelions and a couple of straggling petunias on the porch. The butterflies let me enjoy them for a bit before flitting off into the wind.

Despite my excitement over their appearance, I felt so sad. I knew their time was limited given the calendar. Today’s morning temp of 30 surely didn’t help.

Yet, I’m grateful for the moments of joy they brought.

One chrysalis remains. You can just see the shape of the wings. I guess I’ll leave it be for now.