Memorial Day is locally observed publicly and privately; among the plants and animals, everything is growing. Please send your photos to editor@gazettejournal.net.

Shirley Lavin of Cobbs Creek photographed a monarch butterfly emerging from its chrysalis. Karen Borja of Gloucester has gardenias in full bloom. Donna Frantz of Susan peeked into a bluebird nest on her back porch.

Makari Foster, 8, photographed eggs, then baby cardinals, on Holly Springs Drive, Gloucester.

Ron and Rene’ Moring of Hayes put out a yard display to remind their neighbors of Monday’s solemn holiday. Julie Shields of Hayes said, “Our amaryllis loved the recent rain!” Box turtle finds bliss; photograph by Rebecca Slater.

Leah Lovato of Gloucester found “Mama and her babies” on the move. Lisa Walker found three snakes in her tree. Carl Zulick of Deltaville send a photo of a “mostly white” skunk that frequents his yard.

Orchid at the home of Milton Hudgins and the late Judy Hudgins on Sarah’s Creek. B...