Six days later...

I blipped this very monarch chrysalis six days ago (HERE) when it was brilliantly green with a band of shimmery gold.  Now, less than a week later, it is ready to emerge as a butterfly.  In fact, as I type this, it is very likely climbing out of it's fragile shell.  In this photo, you can see where the butterfly is starting to pull free of the chrysalis just a bit up at the top (which is its abdomen).  And what you can't see in this image, is a fine crack along the back where it's legs and antennae will poke out soon. This whole metamorphosis process just awes me. 

(PS - it was a girl, a perfect girl!)

This will be #16 for this year for me.  Many more in chrysalis or caterpillar form still and three tiny "newbies" just taken into the nursery this morning.  Taking requests if you want a butterfly released in someone's memory.

Gym done, now off to have lunch with some friends.  Then, Hubs and I are taking a ride to look at another memory care facility for MIL.  

xo
Debbi

On depression ... Even when one's depression is well managed (as mine is), it's important to be vigilant.  I try to recognize when I am feeling "off" and take extra time to do the things that I know will calm me - in my case, nature and photography, preferably together. For some it might be knitting, writing, walking...doesn't matter what it is, what matters is that it helps to still your mind.