Butterflies

We've been having a great summer so far. Payton's been enjoying summer camp a few times each week, playing outside almost daily, and we're enjoying the nice weather.

One fun summer activity we did was order a butterfly kit. We ordered caterpillars on-line. I have to admit I was surprised they arrived alive in their little container. (also forgot to take a picture of them). After a couple of weeks they built cacoons and then...left them...here's the empty cacoon picture.

Then, Payton (with the help of some sweet friends), released the butterflies!

What a fun and interesting experience for all of us! We will probably do it again next summer!

Gardening Year 2

This is year 2 of our garden and it's so fun that this has become a family hobby. We all have really enjoyed it again so far this year! Payton loves to help plant the seeds, water the plants, and pick the harvest. It's still early in our season here in the midwest. Some of the things we are growing...

blueberries

blackberries 

tomatoes

peaches

raspberries (kind of out of control this year)

snap peas, pole beans and various herbs, via square foot gardening

strawberries (They've done well this year. Last year we got 3 to eat, this year we've enjoyed about 150!)

rain barrel (trying to be more green  :))