Snowberry

I am fortunate to live in a part of the country where two species of Hemaris clearwing moths fly.  I recently blipped several of the other species, the hummingbird clearwing.  Today's flyer is the Snowberry Clearwing Moth, Hemaris diffinis.  The easiest way to tell them apart visually is that H. diffinis has a mask, making it look a bit like a bandit.  You can see it quite clearly in this photo.  The other more subtle "tell" is that H. diffinis is a more aggressive flyer, frequently chasing other moths, bees, and butterflies away from flowers.  I have seen them attack the hummingbird clearwing moths quite aggressively, sometimes taking them to the ground.  No permanent harm is done, but it is a very interesting behavior in a moth.

MIL is resting comfortably with both of her children checking in on her regularly.  She's exhausted, not surprisingly.  We don't reasonably expect to see her bounce back to her "old" self, but we remain hopeful that being in familiar surroundings will help her heal, mentally and physically.

I got a parental long-distance hug from my mom and dad when we talked last night.  And then I slept for 11 straight hours, which I apparently needed.

My besties are due to arrive within the hour.  We are celebrating both Kura's and Ellen's birthdays, and life in general.  There is nothing quite like long-time friends, people who've seen you through boyfriends, break ups, deaths, marriages and all the other things life throws our way.  

Don't forget to tell your special people that you love them.

xo
Debbi