I have only one thing to say: THEY'RE BAAAAAAACK!!
Between July 16th and October 15th there were 8 monarchs in total passing through here (and tons more elsewhere) as apposed to last year's 0 (can't recall if there were any at all unfortunately). Since I'm in the city (NYC) I guess we don't get as many (although the diversity in general by my place and the neighborhood is AMAZING) flying through as you would in more open rural places (upstate, highways, Central Park (fields, meadows, woods, no light pollution, SATURNIIDS) etc). But it nevertheless pleased me to no end because seeing them like that meant that they were bouncing back.
And sure enough that's exactly the case as millions (3-4 times the amount in previous years) of monarchs have arrived in Mexico. I wonder if my tagged lovely made it there alright. I sure hope she did. God bless them all. Pic spam:
The first two weeks of October were blessed with observations of these angels. I literally stood there for God knows how long camwhoring with such perfection. Then stood there for another half hour afterwards just watching them and playing with them (I had them walking on my fingertips but not long enough for pics) and I need to stress something:
Watching these beautiful creatures go about their business.......flitting from flower to flower gliding in circles around the buddleias they were taking nectar from has got to be the most soothing thing ever to ones psyche. I cannot find the proper words to express how peaceful and utterly happy they have left me each and every time.
It's sacred. Monarchs have such breathtaking flight patterns......such power and grace.......I just can't......I honestly feel blessed to have witnessed such perfection. You may feel I'm exaggerating (I've been told I do so in matters such as these) but seriously go and watch them. Go watch them and just sit/stand there for a few minutes (or hours in my preference because I can't get enough) and just forget everything. Don't think about a single thing and just marvel at how something so delicate can be so utterly strong.
The beauty in it.......I really don't have the words. Just go watch them next season. Insanely therapeutic and if I couldn't love them anymore.......it's never ending.
I hope they all made it to Mexico okay. I hope to see many many many more. God bless Danaus plexippus. I hope you all have a wonderful year to come. Blessings to all!
Happy New Year
May the wings of the butterfly kiss the sun and find your shoulder to light on
To bring you luck, happiness, and riches today, tomorrow, and beyond.......♥
ɛïɜ
