Where are all the butterflies?

A year ago I couldn't go outside without rushing back for the camera in pursuit of the perfect butterfly shot. The buddleia at the back of the house generally had at least half a dozen butterflies competing for my attention - peacocks, red admirals, small tortoiseshells, painted ladies, the occasional brimstone, large and small whites. This year, I have seen only one peacock, no painted ladies at all, and only bees on the buddleia. There are lots of small butterflies dancing around the garden, too flighty to capture with a camera - meadow browns, gatekeepers and small coppers - but I'm perplexed at the absence of so many of the usual visitors. I was excited to spot a comma on Saturday morning, but it was inconveniently positioned and the photos weren't good; however, this meadow brown did pose nicely in the sun. 

Saturday began with an unexpected knock at the door: a friend from our Quaker meeting, on her way to an event nearby, brought beautiful flowers, chocolates and greetings. We've not been in touch much recently, since the world returned to indoor activities while we remained out on a limb, so it was good to see her, chat for a few minutes, and be told that we are missed. and in Friends' thoughts. A flower detail is today's extra. We also enjoyed fresh boiled eggs, a gift from neighbours, with P's home made bread for our Saturday brunch, and the last of the delicious strawberries from across the road, for dessert, so it was a day for being grateful for the kindness of the many good people in our lives. 

After an effort to catch up last week, I'm back to blipping photos a day late. I have today's photos ready to share, but it's too late now.