For this week’s challenge, Ritva asks us to dig deeper than the surface beauty of our photography to reveal through them “the interplay between shadow and light, ultimately capturing the essence of optimism that arises from seemingly insignificant openings in our world.” She asks us to “let each image tell a story, convey an emotion, or illustrate a moment of seeing light.” To begin I shine the spotlight on some of the magic I found at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House while in St. Louis, with my sisters this past week.
A Paper Kite butterfly (Idea Leuconoe), has emerged from its chrysalis and hangs suspended soaking in the light of life as it continues its metamorphosis journey.
This King Swallowtail (Papilo Thoas) has moved away from its chrysalis and clings to a wall in the chamber gathering strength. Notice how much more full and thick its wings are compared to the just emerged Paper Kite.
Amid the flowers in the Missouri Botanical Gardens, this Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is the first I’ve ever seen and photographed in the great outdoors! The remainder of my post features the first stanza of a poem I wrote, with illustrations from my photo archive.
“Light is Life”
Light percolates through mist,
Light clenched in dense fog,
Light splintering between dark clouds,
Lindy Low LeCoq 
Gorgeous photographs Lindy, I especially love the way you captured the newly emerged Paper Kite and King Swallowtail butterflies 💛🦋 xxx
Thank you, Xenia. The incubation space was at eye level and kids had a grand time looking and learning – as did I!
What a lovely response to this challenge Lindy! I loved your butterfly images. And your poem was outstanding.
Thank you, Anne. I’m always a little shy about putting out my writing, yet when it fits I do. Glad you liked it!
😍
What a beautiful choice you made for the challenge, Lindy! The photos are gorgeous from start to finish.
Thank you, Egídio. I always appreciate your praise!
So positive and lovely photos, clouds and rays of light are one of my favorite things to capture-
Thank you, Ritva. This was a wonderful challenge!
Great photos Lindy. I love the butterflies!
Thanks, John. What’s not to love about butterflies?!!