A patch of 'common weeds' has taken over a corner of the yard and we couldn't be happier about it. They inspired me to make signs preserving the area and even relocate more of the leafy plants, by the wheelbarrow load, from the adjacent field. There are over a hundred of them there now, all together, established, and growing tall.

What 'common weed' is worth this effort? Sore shoulders, blistered hands, a little chiding from the gentleman who's been hay baling the field for years? "Common Milkweed. (Asclepias syriaca) is a tall, native North American perennial wildflower famous for its fragrant pink flower clusters and its role as the essential host plant for monarch butterfly larvae." (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center)

We are constantly learning, here, and seeing new wonders everyday. One of the most endearing sights, this summer, was the near constant flow of little, fluttery Monarch and Swallowtail butterflies who discovered this place themselves. Can’t wait to see this spot and even more butterflies next year!