SPIDER UPDATE:

I found out what kind of spider she is.....

The spider species Argiope aurantia is commonly known as the Black and Yellow Garden Spider or Writing Spider. It is common to the lower 48 of the United States, southern Canada, Mexico, and Central America. They have distinctive yellow and black markings on their abdomens and a mostly white cephalothorax. Like other members of Argiope and almost all other spider species, they are considered harmless to humans.

The female of the species is striking in appearance with distinct yellow and black markings, including banding on the legs. Despite the vivid color, the garden spider is well camouflaged, blending in easily with partially sunlit areas.

These spiders are not dangerous to people, and their bites result in nothing more than a sore, itchy swelling that goes away in a few days.

As the weather cools, she becomes more frail, and dies around the time of the first hard frost.

We've enjoyed watching her and feeding her. As much as I don't particularly like spiders...I have enjoyed her presence and will miss her when she's gone. (sort of)