Illinois

After an incredibly dry year, I’m so happy it finally rained. Twice! That’s a bit of a big deal around here after one of the driest years in memory. We’re semi-arid to begin with. We need all the rain we can get.

Sweet Peas refreshed

The air smells wonderful. After a few hours of grey clouds, followed by sunshine, I feared we had already seen the last of it. Then around 1:00 this afternoon, another storm blew in. I’m loving it and enjoying it while I can. We’re back to ‘sunny and 68′ F (20’ C) by the weekend.

Hyacinth emerge

Our season runs from July through June. Season to date is typically 2.18″. We’ve recorded 0.66.”

I realize it’s all relative. Parts of the world are shoveling out snow. Others are already fed up with wind and rain. Super Typhoon Haiyan besieged the Philippines and the mid west state of Illinois will take years to recover from late-season, powerful tornadoes. Such devastating losses our weather can bring. My heart goes out to everyone suffering these profound injuries and loss.

Today, in my little corner of the world, I’m happy the rains are falling. I’m also filled with gratitude for all I have.