Will You Step Into My Parlor?

Female goldenrod spider (Misumena vatia)

Lovely things, these middling pages in August, the cooler mornings with their high, clear light and gossamer clouds from here to there.

There are a few cicadas singing in the garden, but there have not been nearly as many about this year. Their numbers may have been diminished by smoke and airborne particles from forest fires in northern Quebec and the Maritimes which hindered their ability to breathe. I collect the mortal husks of those who have expired and inter them in a corner of the garden. It is something I do every year, saying thanks as I tuck them lovingly into the good dark earth with an old teaspoon.

Respiratory issues and the destruction of their habitat by forest fires have also affected butterfly populations this year, particularly Monarchs.

August brings heavy dews, and a little after dawn, our roses are dappled with moisture and glistening. Several blooms are being used by spiders like this female goldenrod spider to hide and pounce on unsuspecting beetles and flies. The little dears can have all the Japanese beetles they want.