This chrysalis is the first we’ve found and it is under the banister of our front porch.  We hope the many (40?, 50?) caterpillars we’ve had chomping on our various milkweeds are doing the same thing.  This photo taken two days ago.  Several of our baby milkweed plants have been stripped of leaves by the caterpillars but it is worth it for the blessing that these insects are.

Monarch Chrysalis on the Crystal River Inn B&B front porch railing.

Waupaca 2010 Triathlon Poster with our guest participants signatures.

Our guests participated in the Tri – many for the 4th year in a row. Congratulations one and all.  A highlight of the event for us is the brunch served after the event when the participants and friends can feast on fresh fruit, ham and cheese scones, Crystal River Scramble (LOCAL EGGS!) , etc. and talk about their event.  The energy and sharing is exciting to us as well.

It’s fun to see newcomers visibly relax before the Tri as they hear from experienced ones what to expect and where to go… and expand their circle of friends.

Here is one monarch caterpillar chomping away on our swamp milkweed (asclepias incarnata).  It is one of at least 8 of various sizes on the three plants.  We planted them especially for butterflies, especially the monarch, our WI state insect.