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Queen of the Lace! We can share. We've had quite a bit of rain, and my Brazilian houseguest Carmen just bought a new camera and lens.  We attempted to go for a walk this morning, but the light rain foiled our plans.  This afternoon when the sun came out, we headed for the sanctuary to give her new camera a "field test."  

Small butterflies were out in force, feeding on the only flowers blooming right now, which are primarily the Queen Anne's lace.  They are sharing the flower space with bees.  Carmen stopped to take photos of water droplets, insects, flowers, and of course, the butterflies.

Milkweed bug family reunion. Orange sulphur butterfly Someone had been through the sanctuary since my last visit a week ago, cutting down some saplings.  Managing growth is important to maintain proper habitat for wildlife and birds.

It was great to see some sunshine after all the rain.  I predict that with the sunshine predicted for the next few days, rapid growth of the native grasses will be evident along the pathways.

This tree was watching me. Monarch brakes for a landing! If you decide to visit the sanctuary, don't be discouraged if you see the gate closed and locked.  It is always closed and locked.  Just park near the gate, and walk to either side of it, stepping over the low pipe rail.  Then continue on down the hill and into the sanctuary.  You will see a small pavilion; be sure to sign in to let the managers know you were there.

<Thanks for reading my blog entry, which is part of a personal photography project to bring attention to and to benefit the Fred Archibald Sanctuary in New Market, MD.  The sanctuary is owned and managed by the Audubon Society of Central Maryland.  Copyright 2017 Cam Miller.  All photographs are for sale upon request.>