Nature Encounters

“Rest, nature, books, music—such is my idea of happiness.” – Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910)

Rainbow Scarab (Phanaeus vindex)

I’m not sure where she was going but I found her upside down on the sidewalk.  I did help her get right side up then realize how colorful she was in the sun.  Supposedly the males are even more colorful than this one.

Spring Beauty

Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica)! They’re one of the first wildflowers to pop up and signal spring’s arrival in our region. I spotted this tiny beauty peeking out from the leaf litter on our hike today.  Tiny bloom of white petals with pink stripes.  Small, delicate, and doesn’t bloom for too long and then it’s gone.