New England Asters are really attracting butterflies now–mostly orange sulfurs.
And, I saw a nice gray hairstreak and was able to spend some time photographing it.
Oh, yeah–I was laid off from my job today, too–part of the federal government shutdown.
I have been laid off before–hopefully this is temporary. Still, it feels weird. I will rant about it later.
The roused bear 
It has to be temporary. How long will the lunatics be allowed to run the asylum? If our president can negotiate peace in the middle east, surely he can bring rational governing back to DC. We have to support him, in the spirit of our long tradition of not negotiating with terrorists and pirates. Best wishes to you and your family as you wait it out. My heart goes out to you, and the millions like you across our country. Thank you for sharing your beautiful photos.