Scaring the Kids, Curing Disease and Butterfly Wars

The latest and greatest going on in my garden:
Clethra 'Ruby Spice' is now in full bloom and is completely covered in bees all day and night:I strategically planted this shrub right next to our deck so the scent could be enjoyed by the family. That plan worked out well as my daughter picked up on the smell this week and loved it. However, the plan back fired as the kids don't like all of the bees and run for cover. One of these days those naive bastards youngsters will understand the beauty of bees.

We had an unexpected outbreak of syphilis in my neighborhood this week (long and scandalous story) but being the resourceful gardener and holistic professional that I am, I came to the rescue and harvested a bunch of Lobelia siphilitica for those affected:                   

So it was nice to help out my diseased neighbors and all, but honestly, I am more impressed by the color on the blooms of this perennial:  

Yes, I know many think of the Althea (Rose of Sharon) as a weed or "old school", but you cannot deny how great these blooms look when back lit:

Speaking of back lit, how can you not love the blooms on Pennisetum 'Rubrum' (Purple fountain grass) this time of year:

Yes, this may not be my best black swallowtail pic, but I'm not exaggerating when I tell you I chased this SOB for almost an hour trying to get the best possible photo. I eventually had to settle on this shot as she sat in the tree and laughed at my futility:
We will meet again and I will capture her in all her glory like never before.
Game friggin on.
John