Before we moved into our new house, I asked the previous owner to take me on a yard tour and show me which flowers and plants were the most meaningful to her. At the top of the list was a large yellow butterfly bush that she got from her mother.

Well, a couple of weeks ago, this bush burst forth into full bloom, and I’ve been watching and waiting and hoping and praying (put that on repeat!) for a butterfly to show up every day since. Then, yesterday afternoon, a Pipevine Swallowtail finally discovered the blossoms and leisurely flitted from flower to flower.

Pipevines are one of the four black-colored Swallowtails that are typically found in my neck of the woods. He is fairly unremarkable when you see the topside…

…but is easily identifiable by the brilliant blue coloring on his underside. He also has an intact row of orange spots (the Spicebush has one smudged out!) and a double track of creamy dots on his body.

Isn’t he gorgeous?

Funny side note: This butterfly bush is in our side yard and is most easily seen through the bathroom window. So, if you want to know if there are butterflies fluttering by, then the best way to do so is to habit bundle! In other words, whenever you have to take a leak, go to the window and sneak a peek!

And since this hot summer weather has me staying well hydrated…stay tuned for more butterfly photos in the days ahead!