Regardless of our age, most of us are still young at heart and delight in the wonders of the natural world. As we tune in and heighten our awareness, we are able to experience life in a more profound way. This includes noticing what surrounds us and expressing appreciation for our day-to-day experiences.
Brooks and I have lived in the same home near Langley, Oklahoma for over 30 years and have always had numerous flower beds on our property. The past few years, we’ve been more purposeful with pollinator gardens in order to attract butterflies, bees and even hummingbirds.
Attracting monarch butterflies with milkweed plants has been a priority, but we decided to plant dill, parsley and fennel this year as well to attract a variety of other butterflies. Brooks also expanded two beds in front of his studio space and added a water feature.
Needless to say, the dill plants have been a huge hit. Our daily entertainment for the past few weeks has involved watching hungry caterpillars munch on dill. These caterpillars will soon become black swallowtail butterflies, which are designated the official state butterfly for Oklahoma.
We initially learned in elementary school about the metamorphosis process and the four distinct life stages that occurs: the egg, the caterpillar (larvae), the chrysalis (pupa), and the adult butterfly. Brooks and I are definitely still learning and are immensely grateful to have access through our phone to quickly identify what we are seeing when we aren’t quite certain.
We’ve observed the female butterfly laying her tiny round eggs on the dill plants as well as the different larvae phases, called instars. We’ve even witnessed and smelled their defense mechanism to ward off predators.
It’s amazing to observe the transition from a crawling, dill-eating caterpillar into a flying, nectar-drinking butterfly. We are completely captivated, enthralled and enamored with these caterpillars, who will soon become beautiful butterflies.
And I always enjoy referencing Animal Speak Pocket Guide by Ted Andrews to learn more about the spiritual meaning from our animal, or in this case, insect messengers. According to Ted Andrews, caterpillar indicates, “Good luck and new birth are at hand.” He advises us to, “Take a gentle and quiet approach to endeavors. Be realistic and shed the old.”
Ted Andrews further acknowledges that butterfly means, “New love and joy are coming.” He shares that, “Transformation is inevitable, but will be easier than expected. Embrace the new beginnings.”
Ultimately, I’m choosing to see each day as a new beginning. I plan to stay in the heart-space and follow the joy with everything I experience. These caterpillars have truly captivated me!
Note: We have seen a few monarch butterflies, and we’re actively checking the milkweed plants for caterpillars.
