We took advantage of the fleeting mild late-summer days and went on a field trip to Peck Farm in Geneva. On our way, we swung by and picked up some cousins for added fun!

Probably the coolest thing about Peck Farm is the Butterfly House. Ruthie has been reading Fancy Nancy, and here is the advice Nancy gives about attracting butterflies:

Taking Nancy’s advice, she found the most colorful clothes she could find. Then cousin Ellie bequeathed some butterfly wings to her that morning. We decided to forego the perfume, with the bees at a swarming high these days.

Shortly after entering the Butterfly House, butterflies were landing on one kid

after another

after another

after another

after another

until every kid had a butterfly encounter except Ruthie. She was sad.

We were ready to call it a day at the Butterfly House when, as we were walking toward the door, a butterfly landed on top of Ruthie’s head.

It was an educational experience, as we saw many chrysalises ready to emerge.

We also learned to identify many of the butterflies.

We found a caterpillar

and many hummingbirds.

And did a lot of playing.

The kids discovered that birch tree bark makes great paper.

Best buds!!