While we were distracted with our foundation fixing, the caterpillars snuck in and took over the forest! A quick survey reveals at least 4 different mildly destructive species, weaving web tents, curling up on the undersides or wrapping themselves in little leaf tacos to munch away. Since these critters are most likely sawfly larvae or webworm moths, and not beautiful butterflies, we feel justified burning the afflicted branches to minimize future munching.
The flowers of late summer are gangly and wild, traipsing across the forest floor and filling in where others have left off. All except for the Swamp Rose Mallow and Montauk Daisey (not yet open), which seemingly chose to wait until September to bloom so that they could be the biggest show in town!
Orange Jewel Weed 
Goldenrod 
Wild White Aster 
Himalayan Balsam 
Purple Stemmed Aster 
Speckled Henbit 
Butterfly Bush 
Jerusalem Artichoke 
Oakleaf Hydrangea 
Swamp Rose Mallow 
Montauk Daisy
Now, to breathe in the cooling fall air for a moment and turn our sights back to the OG plans for the summer…jacking up the center room and building a new fireplace and kitchen!