Hot weather early in the week hastened our transition to summer. Lilacs blossomed but quickly faded in the heat. Pinxterbloom Azalea is in full flower as is the honeysuckle and Autumn Olive. Dandelions have faded away and been replaced by asters and yarrow. Garden soil had started to dry out but rain last night and today is replenishing soil moisture. Water levels of the Hoosic River and Bassett Brook had dropped to below normal levels but are being replenished by the rain. Garden vegetables and lawns are growing well. Most trees are fully leafed out. We saw a yearling bear cub out foraging on its own. Carp were vigorously spawning in the south pond of Cheshire Lake.