Watching Monarch emerge was memorable

To the editor:

Thanks for the great article on Monarch butterflies on The Gazette's front page ('On the wing,” Aug. 2).

We had our own wonderful experience the day before when a Monarch emerged from a chrysalis we had been watching on our front porch. Thanks to the helpful volunteers at a Noelridge Greenhouse open house, we received four small milkweed plants. We planted them and enjoyed the flowers. Shortly after, we found a beautiful green chrysalis hanging from our cement porch. I decided to take pictures as my 10-year-old grandson and I watched the chrysalis over several days. We were so excited the day it turned black. When we went out again the butterfly was out and just starting to move its wings. It took a while for it to dry out and get ready to fly. In awe, we watched and recorded as it flew away. What a memorable experience it was.

I'd like to offer huge thanks to all the greenhouse volunteers who made this educational experience for my grandson and me possible. I am so grateful to live in a community that puts so much effort into such positive endeavors.

Bonnie Statezni

Marion