It's a Labor of Love

 

"Following my morning garden chores, I sat on a bench for a rest. Sitting there less than 30 minutes, I observed several black swallowtails, a couple of Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, a few Monarchs, a couple of goldfinches, a pair of cardinals, a few hummingbirds, in addition to lots of white cabbage butterflies and tons of bees and moths. For this, my friend, is what I toil 10 months of the year." 

                                                            CBJ (aka ABN.)

Our little backyard Butterfly, Bird and Bee habitat has been quite lively these past couple of months. We documented a record number of butterfly species, surpassing the previously recorded maximum by four species.   

After a recent influx of Monarchs and hummingbirds on their journey to a warmer venue, and as other butterflies prepare for their winter hibernation the activity has noticeably decreased.

While the goldfinch population has tapered off to a pair or two, the Robin family has returned from their summer hiatus. And there is an increase of  red flashes as the cardinals dart through the garden.

The buzz of the bees remains constant.

Apparently word of our little habitat has spread. While we are all for diversity, there is not enough room for opossums and raccoons. We understand they are looking for water sources, but honestly, they are not considerate guests. Feeling they would thrive better, Captain has initiated an Urban Mammal Relocation Program to a wooded area near the Ohio River. 

One might think it would be the beginning of a slower pace for the gardeners. Not so, as the rush to prepare for the next season begins. Beds must be prepared for fall planting as well as for early spring planting. Repairs must be made, spent flowers removed, leaf mulch applied, pots washed, all before the cold, short days of winter.

Since the gardeners are also the home maintenance crew, our work is never slow. You may recall our post from April 2024 about the re-plastering of our vintage home. It was completed in August! 

For about a week, we lived in our bedroom, kitchen and back porch as four rooms, plus the bath and hall on the main level were painted.

The painting is now completed! Fortunately the painters moved the heavy furniture and we worked diligently to clean and return order to our home. It is now company ready.

A much needed reprieve for the gardeners and home maintenance crew is next on the agenda. Perhaps now is the time to explore a little in our home state and have a taste of bourbon.