by hatfield13

October Guests

I keep talking about cutting back the asters that grow along the front walkway.  They’re enormous and overgrown, and when it rains, they droop over the sidewalk so you can’t get inside without your pant legs brushing through them and getting soaked.  I haven’t cut them back, though, because butterflies and bees love them, especially this time of year when not much else is in bloom. 

Today, I was so glad that I’m all talk and no garden scissors.  When I got out of the car after school, six Monarch butterflies were swarming around the asters.  I tiptoed past them to find E and a camera, and for half an hour, we watched them, leaning in so close we could hear their wings fluttering.

Listen…


If you look closely, you’ll see this Monarch sharing his flower with a bumblebee!

One by one, they flew off over the lake, heading south on a long, long journey. We were happy to have shared a bit of it with them.

And if you’re planning to visit me any time soon… I’ll apologize in advance.  The asters flopped all over the front walk are staying right where they are.

31 Replies on “October Guests”

  2. My son and I saw Monarchs for the first time yesterday when we were out shopping. He chased them up and down the flower beds. Your pics are beautiful . . . now I’m wondering if asters only bloom in late summer? Mine finally bloomed about three weeks ago, and I thought it was because they’re on the north-facing side of the house.

  4. Kate,

    Congrats on finding a title. I love it. I hope that “Champlain and the Silent One” is flying off of the shelves. I just wanted to let you know that “Fatty Legs” has received glowing reviews from my editor. In fact, the word “WOW” was used. Thank you for all of your help. Hopefully, the publisher agrees. I will keep you informed. And, expect to be sent one of the 1st autographed copies, if it passes go. Enjoy the fall.

  6. Hooray for asters!

    Great pics, Kate. I hopeHopeHOPE to meet one of your monarchs later in the winter … in Mexico. Fingers crossed!

  17. Do you need another research assistant for your trip? Would I perhaps fit in your suitcase? I’m dying to see the monarchs in Mexico – it’s so, so cool that you’re going!

  23. monarchs

    your October guests took my breath away……..unbelievable pics. I was watching you and E enjoying the moment. Let’s go to San Miguel and see the Monarchs ! lymyb

  25. How beautiful! Ya gotta love all the clashing, splashing brilliant colors of fall.

    (If you want to keep your asters from flopping, Gardener’s Supply has these green rubber-coated heavy wire props that do the trick, but manage to camoflauge themselves in foliage. –Next year.)