WCAX has been requesting pictures of positivity recently and some that they have shown are really nice. I haven't submitted anything, but I was thinking today as I watched dozens of yellow swallowtail butterflies busy at our lilac bush I should try for a picture of them. They are somehow comforting to watch. In this world of turmoil, that is a distinct plus.

I got outside and climbed the hill to Jamie and Marie's today! First time I've chugged up the hill for quite a few weeks, although I have been walking in our driveway fairly often. Our driveway isn't as steep as theirs, but it is more protected from the wind and some of these cooler days that's more appealing. It was really warm and muggy when I went today and I was glad to get back to the cool house.

Fred and I took a break after lunch and went over to Tootsie's for creemees. A small one is more than enough for me, but Fred had a medium. Really good, and a fun diversion. I'm afraid having the creemee stand that close by is not a good thing - for may waistline, at least. Fred can stand to put on some pounds, but I need to have more will power. I wish they offered baby size. The ice cream stand in Lyndonville has that size and it is plenty of ice cream.

We've been paying attention to how local schools are celebrating their graduating classes. Danville has photos along the sidewalk at the front of the school; there are signs at the St. Johnsbury School; and WCAX honors graduates from a few high schools after the news each evening. Higher Ground - the large entertainment venue in South Burlington - has partnered with Champlain Valley Expo in Essex Junction to bring concerts and other entertainment to the public drive-in-movie style. People will be able to attend the event by remaining in their parked cars. They are also holding graduation ceremonies for Champlain Valley, Essex and South Burlington high schools next week. That is pretty cool.

Speaking of graduations, college grads are finding it rather difficult to find a job after graduation, depending on their field. I came across this cartoon and thought you might get a chuckle out of it. For some grads the pandemic is just another excuse for hanging out with mom and dad where rent is cheap and the food is good. Isn't it interesting that not too many years ago nearly every young person graduating from college was independent enough to WANT to have a life away from his/her parents; now it seems as if even before Covid-19 we heard a lot more about young people living with their parents - some working, some searching the job market, but many seeming to want to stay within the safety of their parents' home. Gone are the days when kids couldn't wait to be on their own, I guess. It's a totally different world now and will only become more unusual as we continue to navigate through this pandemic.

Tomorrow I think I'll take some pictures of the butterflies in the lilac bush. I need that!