Lessons & Reflections from the National Butterfly Center

I am supposed to be painting my kitchen, but I've been texting with Max and Chris at the Center this weekend, and I just have to share how awesome they both are.

First, we make due a lot at the National Butterfly Center. Thankfully, Max is mechanical and Chris is resourceful, so they both craft solutions and devise creative ways to get things done. Partly, they do this because it's right to reduce, reuse and recycle. Partly, they do this because we have to work within a budget much smaller than the 100 acre project, for which we are responsible. Second, we're getting ready to roll out the new website, which will have a place to post our 'wish lists'.

Saturday, I was at Lowe's checking out tillers for Max, because the one in the garden finally surrendered on Thursday. In spite of Max's skills and heroic life-saving measures, the machine simply cannot be revived. As we discussed options and price points for new equipment, I resignedly informed Max, "I am going to have to go begging for this, or try to find a grant." To which he responded, "That's great! While you're at it, look for one to purchase for an 18' shallow sport. We'll call it 'The Swallowtail'!"

This morning, Chris sent me photos of our healthy indigo on the prowl. We talked about our new-to-us composting barrel, and all the other things we'd like to have....I asked her for her wish list, and she said, "One gallon pots, bags of soil amendments, hand pruners (or ANY other tools for that matter) and a winning lottery ticket."

I busted out laughing. Then I confessed, that was on my list, too!

I am so grateful for the good cheer of everyone here; Jessica, Lupe and Jose all handle things with good humor, too. It's good glue for team-building and it makes facing challenges easier. We're all in this, together. And we're glad you've chosen to join us.