With a total of .55" observed precipitation in the past week, conditions at this station appear to be near normal. Soil is damp to wet presently, due to rain, though it has been able to hold shape when squeezed in the hand through the past week. Garden plants are prolific and green with some brown spots due to hot days with little moisture. Bees are slightly more present, visiting hyssop and tiger lilies for pollen. Deer and other wildlife have been moving around more during daylight hours, possibly searching for water. The contrast between days with and without precipitation is stark. In addition to the thunderstorms and rain this week, smoke from fires in Northern Minnesota have been visible and affect being outside.