I couldn’t time this if I had tried…just days before Halloween.
My son and I went for a hike at a local forest preserve. He found this species trying to cross the path, a female marbled orb-weaver (aka pumpkin spider).
I wont lie. Spiders scare me….but isn’t she a beauty?!?
Right now in October, marbled orbweavers are on a very important mission: laying eggs in a silken cocoon. A cocoon can contain hundreds of eggs. Next spring, the immature spiders will emerge. Good luck little guys, sleep well this winter.
Aerial view.
Notice this female is missing a leg on her right side.
Profile view and photo I made the sketch from.
Happy hunting on your hikes! May you find all things big and small.
Let's Paint Nature! 
Fantastic!
Thank you, Gene!
🙂
only one more week for my second wall exhibit @ the Tinley Park Public Library. Hope you can make it …
Oh! I will try this week to see your exhibit. Thanks for letting me know!
Gene! I saw your exhibit at TInley Library. It’s beautiful! I love them all, but the pine tree is my favorite…also the bird and cross, and the egret. I also like the photography pieces sprinkled in as well. Nice job!! 😀
I’m glad you found so many favorites … I wish I’d known fer sure that you were going to stop by … and when … and Celeste and I might have been able to meet you there … and gone out for coffee
The Walk
What you carry
This beautiful burden
Harvest hued
Though etched deep with the scars
Of your seasons
Both intricate, yet organic
This work of art
Motherhood.
For you and your son. There are never enough arms (legs) or time to hold them near. Blessings to you both and you walk His paths.
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Karen, what a beautiful poem! Thank you!! What a nice gift. I’m going to print this out and show my son. Thanks so much ❤
Great post for Halloween!
Thanks Jane! 🙂
Beautiful spider and you did a great drawing!
Thank you so much, Char!!
I don’t like spiders either, but this one and your painting of it are wonderful! I like this one, this type.
Thanks Jane!
Very beautiful! I have never seen this type of spider. I love your sketch. 🕷🕸
Thank you Michelle! 🙂
Creepy, but a very cool creepy!! 😊
Thanks! I like creepy. Very appropriate!
Love the painting. I really am not too thrilled about meeting your subject.