Since my obsession began in mid-July (thanks to my childhood friend Kathy, who got me started...), Kim and I and our grandkids have released 46 monarchs.  There are 3 chrysalises yet to emerge and I still have 2 caterpillars munching away, so that should put the Gray compound monarch count over 50 for this season.  Not even counting the several chrysalises I have given to friends...

But since I'm leaving on vacation tomorrow, I've had a NO MORE CATERPILLARS rule in place for several days.  I'm leaving the few I've got left to the care of these three kiddos next door to see them off into the wild blue yonder.

The monarchs that are emerging now will be joining their brothers and sisters and beginning the long migration flight to Mexico very soon.  They need to be strong and healthy for that arduous journey!

It's been extra fun sharing this amazing creation of God's with my grandbabies.  I hope to instill in them a love and appreciation for nature like their Gramaw.

It's been a fascinating lesson in God's creative power and just plain fun to watch!

A new monarch is born!

One day I had 8 monarchs emerge within a couple of hours of each other.  So cool!

Watching them wing their way into the world is so rewarding!  

And several have stuck around...we've enjoyed seeing them flying around the cabin.

As he released this beautiful girl, Abram spoke softly and gently in a high-pitched baby voice to her:  

"Go fly away, little butterfly.  You used to be a caterpillar but now you are a beautiful butterfly.  Have a good life."

Sooo sweet!!!

I have to admit, I give them each a little encouraging pep talk too as I let them go...with hopes that some of their progeny will make their way back to the cabin next summer.

Farewell until then, my lovelies...saying my...

...flutter-byes.