The other day I was checking out the flower bed, snooping around to see what was blooming and what was about to bloom. I am the first to admit that it’s a slapdash flower hodgepodge mostly leftover from the previous owner of our house. I had always thought I would rip most of it out and start over but so far in the six years that we’ve lived here it hasn’t happened. Yet.

As I was passing by the lilac bush (that for whatever reason did not bloom this year) I was startled by a movement. Looking closer I saw this:

Pretty good camouflage, I’d say! I’ve only seen one other Katydid before and it was hopping around on the deck. This one was kind of shy and really didn’t want my camera in its face.

Strange creatures!

For now the bee balm has been slowly taking over year by year. I added a hydrangea a few years ago and it blooms, albeit feebly. Pretty though.

And this yellow daisy-like flower that I have no idea where it came from.

I also made a visit to Skylands Botanical Gardens in the extreme heat Tuesday morning and was pleased and surprised to see that they are taking much better care with the grounds this year. Workers were out in full force tending to all the beds. I got stuck on the perennial beds and the water lilies and I’ll be boring you with my favorite shots soon. I’m sure you can’t wait!

And since I’m in an insectuous mood today, here’s a sneak peek! (I just made that word up in case you’re wondering. Does it work for you?)

Dragonfly on water lily.

Really do love that leaf camouflage and, of course, you know I’m a dragonfly fan.  Insectuous?  Hmmm, I don’t know - sounds a bit too much like incestuous.  Maybe insectual might work better??

C, I like insectual too! Still keeping my original word, tho.

I love your flower and insect pics especially the acrobatic dragonfly.

Joyce, thank you! The dragonfly does indeed look like he’s doing an acrobatic move or a ballet move.