Monarch of the garden

Amazed, and very glad I took the camera with me for my afternoon read on the terrace. I haven't seen many butterflies here, but this Monarch was worth the wait. Extra: I just caught it flying away after its brief visit. Spectacular.

Yesterday was another beach day after Spanish class; we feel we need to make the most of it while it's still warm enough. That said, I had a swim and the water was a bit beyond my comfort zone temperature wise. I still remember swimming in mid-November two years ago, but I don't think that'll be happening this time.