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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 . . .

12 comments:

  1. This is a real, live version of a book that I read to Annie!

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    1. seriously? send me the title!

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    2. It is called The Pet in the Jar. It's a Little Golden Book.

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    3. sweet! I'll have to hunt it down!

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  2. wow, that is so cool! I can only imagine how many more caterpillars will be brought home now, after this event!

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    1. I 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)

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  3. they 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...

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    1. seriously - do you think this would count for a years worth of science?

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  4. That 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...

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    1. I think it was more of an accidental patience on my part! ;)

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  5. So amazing that the butterfly actually came out of the chrysalis! So exciting for the kids too!
    We (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!

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    1. we're rooting for your chrysalis; (come on baby!)

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