Getting Ready for the First Rain

The First rain of the season is always a magical time. After months of checking the water tanks, fixing leaks, repairing drip lines so emitters gush the prescribed amount of water, suddenly the dusty dry environment is perched to be drenched from the sky without a bit of effort from my side. The ground is so parched and thirsty that it will devour every drop of water initially and there is zero runoff. The new smells of dampness on the dry hay is a heaven sent scent. The lightness of the air and the misty overcast set the stage for the water to come that will satisfy all living things. Even the gnomes and fairies are dancing with glee at the thought of creeks flowing and dripping leaves. Once the rain starts, the ground will soften and become friendly again to the shovel that wants to loosen and dig. I am always happy when we arrive at this time of year, although it is a sure reminder that the next challenge begins. Now is the time to organize that firewood and just know that every day there will be that new chore that for so long was just a distant thought.