We were at a nearby metro plaza recently where we snatched a little caterpillar out of the jaws of sure death-by-human-shoe; we carried him home (into the jaws of sure death-by-child-adoration?). He was placed into a beautiful habitat, abundantly admired, and promptly left on a sunny windowsill. We found him the next day - shriveled and most certainly dead.
ah no . . . not dead; after a good 12 hours we could see a clearly defined chrysalis.
Malachai hovered over that chrysalis; During weeks I could hear him daily - scolding Selma for touching it, or updating Josu on new developments in its color or shape.
I was sure it was dead.
But it wasn't!
because look! he came out!
(isn't he lovely?)
We gave him a few hours to dry out his wings, called over the neighbors to have a good look, and then opened a window for him.
Certainly, God's majestic creativity and generous guiding hand is on display every time a caterpillar wraps himself into a chrysalis and emerges as a butterfly; I do think, though, that this guy may have received an extra dose of divine protection . . .
This is a real, live version of a book that I read to Annie!
ReplyDeleteseriously? send me the title!
DeleteIt is called The Pet in the Jar. It's a Little Golden Book.
Deletesweet! I'll have to hunt it down!
Deletewow, that is so cool! I can only imagine how many more caterpillars will be brought home now, after this event!
ReplyDeleteI know, right? (I'm pretty sure that all critters, all over the city, hide when they see us coming; they've heard about the tragic ending of MOST of the live creatures that have come home with us)
Deletethey showed me that chrysalis, and I was sure it was dead too! reminds me that we need to be patient in so many areas! Also, I think you could have twisted this story a bit more in honor and glory of your homeschool abilities...
ReplyDeleteseriously - do you think this would count for a years worth of science?
DeleteThat is so awesome! I need to remember to indulge those "bring the caterpillar" home moments more often. I think I am afraid of the possibility of the caterpillar dying and all the children crying... but out of fear I am missing out on the joy that comes from the ones that survive. And I am totally with Gab... great homeschooling mom! And totally convicted too... it is a great reminder to be patient...
ReplyDeleteI think it was more of an accidental patience on my part! ;)
DeleteSo amazing that the butterfly actually came out of the chrysalis! So exciting for the kids too!
ReplyDeleteWe (i.e. my kids!) brought home a caterpillar, and we have had the chrysalis all winter, but we read that some varieties emerge in the spring. . . so we are waiting, but I'm afraid we just have a dead chrysalis. :-( Congratulations! and what a gorgeous butterfly!
we're rooting for your chrysalis; (come on baby!)
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