Nothing had changed since the last time I was here.

The same chill in the autumn air, the smell of wood smoke from the campfires.

I made my way to my favourite camp site, nestling in the shelter of the mountain. I was far enough away from the crowds who always gathered at this time of year, all yearning to see the thousands of Monarch butterflies gather before starting their migration.

I alone knew the perfect place.

I followed the stream beside the old logging trail, with birdsong for company, each twist and turn increasing my anticipation.

Finally, I stood in the secret glade and looked around, thrilled to find they were already here. Every tree was covered in a blanket of living leaves, thousands of colourful butterflies at rest, barely moving in the slight breeze.

I held my breath. Had I chosen the right moment?

As if some signal had been given, the butterflies slowly took flight, soaring up into the sky, leaving me with mixed feelings of joy and sadness in my heart…

© JayeMarie 2020