Fallen Jewelweed, millpond It was a hot, hot afternoon, but my desire to continue testing my new lens overcame my medication-induced fatigue and the nuisance requirement that I had to venture forth, to avoid severe sunburn, in long pants, long sleeves, and a hat. Pains aside—and it is still not easy to heft a camera—I headed out towards the millpond to check on the odonates, especially the Dragonhunters, which were courting and often cooperative. In addition to these spectacular beasts, the usual cast of characters—the pondhawks, dashers, and slaties—were active, and there are still Ebony Jewelwings and Powdered Dancers on the wetlands stage. On the vegetation side, one thing is clear: the splendid floral displays of Pickerelweed, Cardinal Flower, and Jewelweed are now past peak. A few of the flowers, such as this Jewelweed blossom resting on a bed of Duckweed leaves, have even been shed—a subtle reminder of things to come.