Butterflies on Butterfly Bushes

We have two large butterfly bushes on the south side of the garden shed.

Like most plants on the property, it is only a couple years old.

This is the first year it has flowered profusely and as promised --the butterflies are loving it.

 This is the violet variety,

and it has the most flowers -- and butterflies.

 This is the dark purple variety,

and it has some fans.

 While I was taking pics,

I caught this guy mid-lunch.

My oregano is also a popular butterfly stomping ground.

Brown Eyed Susans With Praying Mantis

Brown Recluse Spider Bite -- OUCH!

Yesterday I was putting on a pair of dirty jeans that had been on the floor

(because I was going out to do yard work anyway.)

I thought I felt a sticker, but when I shook out the jeans a little spider fell out.

A little brown recluse spider.

I received some great advice to use a permanent marker to outline original swelling.

And every morning do a new outline.

With any sign of infection you need to see a doctor,

but so far I have just had swelling and itching.

You can bet I won't leave clothes on the floor again.