This week started with 0.62" of rain spread out over three days, followed by four dry days. Drought conditions have improved but we could use more rain. There are regions in the state that are even dryer though, so every little bit helps. It also seems like the dog days of summer have passed and autumn is knocking on the door. Cooler and dryer conditions, with clear deep blue skies are back. 
Many of the flowers in the pollenator garden have passed and are starting to go to seed while the second wave of goldenrod are coming into bloom now. Rose of Sharon are still blooming. Bumblebees and a few smaller bees are still at work and another Monarch butterfly was spotted Wednesday. Tomatoes are still developing in six pots - they got off to a late start after the groundhog ate all but the main stem weeks ago. They made a nice comeback though. I may get a dozen or so good sized heirlooms before the season is completely finished. 
Another early sign of autumn settling in is the dogwood - it is starting to change its leaf coloring to deep maroon. Norway maples are starting to drop leaves already without changing color. Next year's flower buds on the Andromeda and rhodedendron are set. Sunsets are coming much earlier. As already mentioned, autumn is knocking at the door.