No rain since the last report and the ground is drying out.  The cold North wind returned this week and is still blowing. Constant wind with strong gusts up into the 40 mph range has made it tough to be outside comfortably and the ocean is full of white caps--too harsh for water sports or commercial fishing. Fortunately, no power outages in our area at least. Despite this, the area is still full of tourists, though it is clear that the higher gas prices have limited the number of RVs coming in. One local RV park still has many open spaces, which is unusual for this time of year. Our native grape vines have finally starting putting out their shoots and the honeysuckle vine is full of blossoms. Lots of bird song all day, which is delightful.