This male Blue Dasher reminds me of a mini-helicopter prepared for takeoff.
“Forewarned, forearmed; to be prepared is half the victory.” ~Miguel de Cervantes
This Tiger Swallowtail visited one of the vines in my yard in the late afternoon. It had suffered a tear to its left hind wing, probably as the result of a bird bite. Fortunately, it was one of the lucky ones that got away, and this didn’t hamper its movement as it gracefully fluttered from flower to flower sipping nectar. Watching this beautiful butterfly was one of the highlights of my day.
“There’s no need to be perfect to inspire others. Let people get inspired by how you deal with your imperfections.” ~Unknown
This is the time of year that Tennessee’s state wildflower, the Passion Flower, can be found growing wild by the roadside or in fields and woods. The vines run along the ground or climb up trees and fences, and produce beautiful lavender flowers and greenish-yellow fruit.
The things you are passionate about are not random. They are your calling. ~Fabienne Fredrickson
It’s been a hot summer, and these blue dragonflies at Reelfoot Lake were trying to keep cool. In order to stay cool during hot weather, dragonflies raise their abdomens straight into the air to reduce their exposure to the sun. They also use their wings to deflect the sun.
“He who keeps his cool best wins.” ~Norman Cousins