The AOG - Day 9

Being that the day was hot and your intrepid reporter's head feels as if it might explode, I decided to cover some behind-the-scenes stories today.  Well, good thing I picked today because... well, just look at this!  

What you see here is the young team Milkweed Tussock Moth Cat who've all converged at the Milkweed Snack Stand.  You can see that they are huddled together, discussing strategy whilst noshing on fresh milkweed shakes.  It's quite a rare fete to get an interview with these tiny athletes as they move around, en masse, in the dark of night, always settling in a new section of the Shack each morning.  Much to my surprise, they shared with me that they aren't actually competing this year; instead they will be part of the Marching Parade in the Closing Ceremonies! (which explained why they were in the shape of a heart, sort of.)   Off in another corner of the Village, one of the Milkweed Tussock Cat Elders was keeping an eye on the kids HERE - although to be fair, I'm not sure he wasn't sleeping on the job...

While I was trying to get a quote from one of the little cats, I was treated to hearing the Cicada Band practicing for the final ceremonies.  I had to remind them that their performance has been pushed off to 14 August.  I am pretty sure I heard a few little groans of disappointment before they all burst into song again.  You can't keep a cicada down!

I don't know about you all, but this reporter is really enjoying catching up each day with the reports and footage from her fellow Intrepid Reporters from around the World.  In case you missed any of yesterday's thrills, chills and excitement, please click HERE - you won't be sorry!  As usual, I will be delivering hearts and stars as the former become available.

Stay safe.  Be kind. Be Loving.  And find time to laugh.

xo
Debbi

PS: and for the geeks among you... this species lays its eggs in a cluster of Dozens of eggs under dogbane or milkweed leaves. The larva eat as a herd through several instar phases. During this time, when they are ready to molt into their next instar, they all disappear and go someplace private to do their wardrobe change. Eventually, they are large enough, and fuzzy enough, not to need the protection of the herd and they disperse to feed in smaller groups or alone.