This week brought some good soaking rain spread out over five days. Two of those days were close to an inch, totaling 2.26" (0.92" and 1.20"). That helps ease the dry conditions at least in the central part of the state. Other regions did not get as much and their drought conditions continue. 
Temperatures have remained mostly in the average range for this time of year but that is about to change dramatically. Forecasts for this coming week include record breaking 90s (the weather I like to complain about). Hopefully most of those days will hold off until July and August.
Lawns are growing like mad with the rain followed by sunshine and warmer temps. Dogwoods are the star of the show this week, both the pink and white varieties. Azaleas are also starting to bloom (again, both pink and white varieties), rhododendron buds are following close behind. Hostas are sprouting and starting to open their leaves, goldenrod and milkweed are growing in earnest as well. Clematis vines are adding an inch or two every day, even weeds are drawing attention (looking at you garlic mustard).
Most of the song birds have returned, joining the sparrows and other year-rounders. Juncoes have returned north (haven't seen any for a couple of weeks now). Rabbits and squirrels are around, as usual, but I haven't seen much else.
Tis the season to acclimate the houseplants to stay out overnight. As tempting as it is to set up window boxes and planters now, I am holding off until Memorial Day to avoid lingering frosts. In the meantime, they all go out in the morning and back in at night. Back and forth, back and forth. It's all good...