A teeny visitor and taking in some local festivities.

While working around our property today I was visited by this lovely butterfly. I was picking up rocks around the mouse-house and throwing them into a wheel-barrow. It stayed very close to me, not minding the noise, flitting around the dirt and sand. It didn't seem to have any interest in the lush greenery about; just the dirt.

I had no idea who my company was today so I checked it out on the internet.

I think it is the male Swallowtail Magnificent Papilio garamus although there was not much of a tail on this one. Please correct me if I'm wrong. I can take it. ;-)
They are the largest butterflies of North America.
I read that one thing they like to feed on is urine which made sense since our dog uses this area to do his business. Geesh, such a beauty. Whodathunk.

On this gorgeous day there were many markets and out-door celebrations to attend.

We walked around all morning taking in some of the festivities.

Watson's Mills - An old flour mill on the shores of the Rideau River. This building was built in 1860.
In 1861, a tragedy occurred at the mill during the celebration commemorating the first year of
successful business. Read the story at http://www.watsonsmill.com/Mill_Ghost.html

There were numerous vendors, delicious food and so many talented artists to visit.
The retired-guy came home with a bottle of Belgian-style beer cordial (a flavored syrup made with Triple Chocolate Stout) Yum!
I found a beautiful silver watch that had a band made from vintage sterling silver dinner forks.
 
The cats got a new mat for under their ESS. All fresh and new and stinkin' of cat-nip. They loved it. Annie soon owned it.

Tomorrow should be another glorious day. I guess it's back to work on the mouse-house.

hugs, Deb