Butterflies Hatching

Three friends joined me yesterday morning to make some simple books. While folding and gluing, we talked about new releases, old favorites, colors, book design, and their work on books that will be released in the coming months. We reflected on where we are in our lives and careers and how grateful we are to have the people and opportunities in them. Nearby (in a lizard cage purchased at Goodwill), twelve monarch chrysalises hung, their green color absorbed into the developing butterflies. The monarch patterns shone through the transparent, almost black chrysalises. Every so often, one of us would check on them, hoping to see them emerge and stretch their wings. Just prior to the butterfly's exit, the chrysalis get a bit wrinkled. We were able to observe the process twice, all of us beaming in celebration. Thanks to Kim, the monarch expert for providing us with the experience!