Some much needed rain came this week. Two systems over three days brought close to an inch (0.94"). Some areas of the state got well over two inches. The first system was a gentle all-day event, the rain soaked in. The second storm was a front that poured hard over a short period creating a fair amount of run-off. In both cases it all helps to lessen the drought conditions.
Plants are growing - lawns started getting green with the rain and needed mowing. Milkweed is in full bloom and the pollenator garden is loaded with bees (bumblebees, sweat bees, mason and leaf-cutter bees and others) and a few butterflies. Hostas are in full bloom as are the clematis. Buds are forming on Shasta daisies and goldenrod. Several "lightening bugs" or fireflies are flying around although I haven't seen their nighttime light show (I keep looking). There is a noticeable difference in sound at night - it's missing. No crickets or other bugs that create a background noise. Puzzling...
Weather forecasts for the coming week include temps well into the 90s. The heat dome over the central part of the country is headed our way next and should be the main feature for the second half of the week. While some folks love hot weather, it's my least favorite. Heat index readings over 100° is my chance to complain endlessly about the weather:-)