My garden has taught me to slow down and really look at what is happening in nature.

It’s one of my most favorite routines, a walk through the garden before 8:30 in the morning.

You ask, why?

The garden is usually fluttering and buzzing with activity in the morning hours as the sun casts a warmth across the plants.

This morning the monarch butterfly caught my eye and kept my attention for a long time.

She was not bothered by my proximity to her, as her focus was solely on the nectar she was seeking from the purple porterweed. 

I honestly lost count on how many flowers she visited.

She did however take a short break and landed on the goldenrod where she soaked up the sun while opening and closing her wings.

Did you know their feet and head have sensory organs, which help them identify different plants?

Another interesting fact – monarchs can store enough fat, so they do not have to stop and eat while they are overwintering.