Conundrum

I really couldn't decide which image to post as my main - this one or the one in Extra.  I like both and finally just randomly picked this as my main blip.  The Extra is a catbird having strong words with a downy woodpecker.

I found this big fifth install monarch caterpillar in the garden this morning after the rain and liked the way he/she was positioned on the milkweed.  The bonus, that I didn't notice until later, was the much smaller (probably second instar, maybe third) cat just above.  I am always amazed at how much (and how quickly) the caterpillars grow, from being almost too tiny to see with the eye, to being two inches of striped eating machine. This one will soon wander off somewhere to pupate - if I'm lucky, maybe I'll find its chrysalis.  Or maybe not.  

Meanwhile, I released 8 container-raised monarchs today although I had to wait until early afternoon before it got warm enough for them to fly.  

We had the fireplace company come in today to clean our fireplace and chimney.  They always check everything out when they are here to make sure all is in good repair.  A little pricey, but worth it for the peace of mind, especially since we use our fireplace almost every day in the winter.

I got a couple of notes from dog owners from last month's obedience trials, each saying how much they appreciate the photos.  That makes me feel good.  Everyone should have some good images of their pets to remember them when they are gone.

Meanwhile, things in the garden are slowing down with a noticeable drop in bees and wasps.  I only saw two of the Great Black Wasps today, both big females.  But a surprise addition to the garden next to our patio is a very small bunny who's been there at least 3 days.  It's probably about 8 inches long and seems to be very good at sitting perfectly still and blending in.  I hope that strategy continues and that Jax does not discover the little guy.  I thought about trying to trap and move it outside our fence but then thought it would be no time before one of the fox got it so it's luck might be better inside the fence.  Fingers crossed.  

Heading into a couple of really nice days so I'll be outside enjoying it all.

xoxo
Debbi