February 14, 2024: 76 days as a Chrysalis

Most days I eagerly check for any changes but there haven’t been any noticeable ones since my last post, The Alchemy of a Chrysalis. Our Charming Chrysalis still appears healthy and vibrant. While out walking our three dogs today I spotted a few butterflies fluttering around. They were feeding off the fresh spring blooms (which some might call weeds) along the border of the golf course where we live. It fills me with faith and joy to see these new blossoms as they’re a sure sign there’s food available for the chrysalis and that winter is finally over for us here in Austin, TX.

February 23, 2024: 85 days as a Chrysalis

I spotted something exciting today! It’s opening and possibly ready to emerge. I caught a glimpse of bright orange peeking through. Being our first time to observe a Chrysalis hibernate (a.k.a. overwintering) we notice the differences compared to summer time. For instance, the coloring is darker and the emerging process is much slower. Take a closer look and you’ll notice parts of the butterfly’s vibrant orange wing. Isn’t it fascinating? Does it look hollow or can you tell the butterfly is formed inside? There are no visible holes reflecting sunlight through either. The weather has been pretty consistent, with lows around 36 and highs in the upper 80s.

February 24, 2024: Possibly emerged as a Butterfly

Today is a special day for my husband and me. To mark the occasion, we decided to head down to the Texas Wine Country around Fredericksburg and visit one of our favorite wineries, Jen Blossoms Cellars. We indulged in a delightful bottle of wine and enjoyed lunch while overlooking their picturesque vineyard. The weather was around 80 degrees and simply perfect.

Upon our return home I was surprised to find an empty chrysalis. Curious, I gently touched it, only to discover that the butterfly emerged and was gone. It happened while we were celebrating our special anniversary. Reflecting back, out of the 22 butterflies we raised last year, the dates of their emergence often seemed to coincide with significant moments, just like today’s. Could it be that they emerge on these special days as a way of communicating and celebrating with us? It feels like more than just a coincidence.

Through my passion for butterfly rearing, I’ve come to realize the importance of balancing it with my everyday responsibilities and aspirations. While it’s a delightful addition to my life, I simply choose to resume my daily commitments and activities. If I was meant to witness the emerging butterfly, it would have happened. Witnessing the entire journey of the caterpillar transforming into a chrysalis and enduring the winter taught me so much which brought immense satisfaction. The exciting part is that it marks the beginning of a new season, filled with countless joyful moments to anticipate. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to have observed this beautiful caterpillar turned chrysalis, which kept me in wonderment all winter long.