Painted Ladies

Raising Butterflies

We have had the pleasure of raising butterflies since the girls were little.  The miraculous process of transforming from caterpillar, to chrysalis, to butterfly excites us just as much now as it did then!   These tiny creatures become part of our family until the day we accept the necessity of life's circle   (isn't that a lesson in itself?!) and say goodbye.  Watching, learning, studying, and loving butterflies is one of life's pleasures which should be experienced by all!  I hope you can enjoy the transformations in your home, too!

How to...

Today we received our 5 Painted Lady Caterpillars in the mail. 

Insectlore.com offers a variety of insects. 

Complete, detailed instructions on how to care for your creatures are provided.

If you choose to find yours in nature, that is great, too!  We have done it both ways.

Keeping a log of dates, growth, and interesting information
makes for a more thorough scientific study for all ages.

See the little guy on the left posing for his portrait?!

I had to share this miracle, too!  Shasta Daisies!  Big, tall, happy, forgiving perennials!  Every year they get bigger and more magnificent!  I have had this clump, which I continue to thin and transplant, for over 8 years.  They even welcomed being transplanted to a new home in a new city!  You may wish to plant your own!

The joys of summer!

Prairie Day

Little House on the Prairie  

Westmont College students hosted a Little House on the Prairie morning for their children's literature class project.  We spent the day in Walnut Grove...      

building cabins

horse back riding

churning butter

and enjoying the prairie!

Homeschool Wiggles

WIGGLES  

Spring has sprung and so have the girls' yearnings to put away the books and be active outside!  I, too, am hearing the little voice calling us outside to play!  Of course, we  have responsibilities, which I am diligent about fulfilling, within reason.  Unexpectedly, I ran across this fitness ball at Home Goods. Thinking it would inspire stretching and the beginning of a new exercise regimen, I purchased it!  Little did I know that it would help rid those wiggles right out of my girls! I am happy! My girls are happy. Money well spent! 

Between studying they roll, bounce, race, fall, giggle, jump...

then, they resume their studies!

I found the pink ball in brand new condition at a thrift store for $3.00!!!  

How is that for a deal?!  
Enjoy focused scholars!