First of all, I should probably tell you a couple of things that you may or may not already know… First: Our family collects all kinds of insects, all the time, naming them and claiming them as pets. Second: A lot of our insect pets are named after our literary heroes, usually Henty heroes. If we loved him in a book, then we’ll probably name one of our temporary pets after him. We’ve had Lee, Archie, Harry… The list is interesting. So without further ado, meet Phillip…
Phillip is not named after a Henty Hero. He is named after Phillip Ward from Mrs. Havig’s Shadows and Secrets and Cloaked in Secrets (review to follow soon!). It was my younger sisters idea. Our Phillip is a Giant Swallowtail or Orange Dog Caterpillar. Right now he’s in a chrysalis, preparing to burst out as a Giant Swallowtail Butterfly. It was fascinating to watch as he spun and wove it. We’re looking forward to seeing Phillip emerge, probably in the Spring, fully transformed. For now though, isn’t he interesting?! (I actually think he’s really rather pretty too… but that’s me. :)
Mrs. Havig, if you’re reading this, my sisters wanted to name our caterpillar after your character because they like and admire him so much. And if somehow, we figure out that “Phillip” is really a girl?? Deborah and Hannah have already declared that we’ll simply change his name to Dove… :)
I think he’s pretty too. I hope I can see him when he becomes a butterfly. :D
~Jamie
Very Handsome! Love the first shot!
Oh, he’s amazing! I don’t think I’m giving away ANY secrets by promising that Philip is all boy. :)
Take good care of my guy for me!