Things aren't always what they seem

Take this little guy, for example.  You'd be correct in describing it as cute, adorable, clownish and any other number of positive adjectives.  But in fact, this is a late nymph form of a Spotted Lanterfly, a large planthopper indigenous to China and Vietnam.  It first appeared in the US wishin the last decade where it has spread rapidly, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.  It has been observed feeding on over 70 types of trees and plants but has a special liking for soybeans, grapes and stone fruits.  In its native habitat, it is regulated by parasite wasps ... which of course don't live here in the US.  A glimpse of good news is that some native species of birds, like blue jays, have been seen eating the adults which would indicate that they are starting to become part of the food chain.  In the meantime, they are having a very negative impact on farmers in our region.  I will post one of the adults soon as they are also quite stunning.

I met up with a friend for a walk this morning and we had a great time catching up on this and that.  She is on the board for an historic farm property here that is having a fund-raising barn sale this week and I had a bunch of books and kitchen items to donate.  I was able to get rid of about 10 boxes/bags of things that will hopefully help raise money for the farm, so win-win.  

I'm getting ready to pick up Jax shortly and hope that he has had a good day of play and fun at daycare.  Hubs is heading out for a bike ride.  

I had to stop watching the republican debate last night because it was irritating me too much.  I read the recap this morning and it doesn't seem like I missed a whole lot. Hubs watched the whole thing and he said it was a bit of a cluster.  American politics...

Dark with chili today.  Good for inflammation!

xo
Debbi