The emergence of a new butterfly will never grow old. It’s truly fascinating the transformation that takes place in a few short weeks from caterpillar to butterfly once a chrysalis is formed.

I have begun to work in the garden as often as I can early in the morning – from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. for a few reasons – the Southwest Florida sun is not unbearable yet and the activity that takes place is literally a breath of fresh air. It is a calming, and relaxing way to start a new day and great way to keep weeds under control and paths walkable.

Over the last week, or so, I have witnessed quite a few monarch butterflies emerge, something you never take for granted. It always makes me slow down and watch, grateful that I was granted with the opportunity to witness it once again.

There are a slew of photos of the monarch butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, as well as a video showing the entire experience I witnessed below.