Welcoming the Rain

 When rain has been in scarce supply, waking up to dark, moody skies is cause for celebration.  Candlelight on the kitchen island before the coffee is even brewed.

 The breaks between showers were ideal for gathering a few hydrangeas for the table.  Last night after dinner I was blasting them with the hose hoping to revive them a bit from their droopy plea for moisture.  Nothing like a good rainfall to put the pep back in their step.

 I was momentarily irritated with Peanut for making me chase her all over the yard... that was until I wound up on the far side of the magnolias and discovered the beautiful blossoms that always stop me right in my tracks.  I never would have noticed them from the inside of the house.  They are a flower worthy of up close appreciation.  While out running a few errands today I noticed several blooming in the median of a local road.  Pretty, yes, but nothing like standing before them inhaling their delicate scent while gazing at their elegant beauty.  I imagine each year I have done at least one post raving about this amazing plant.  I just can't help myself.  They may be one of my top favorite things about living in the south.

 Sorry, Peanut.

Are we still friends?

 Rainy afternoons and reading just seem to go together in my book (pun somewhat intended :).

It's rather common for me to have a book in my lap, a pile next to me, a pile across from me and even...

 a stack on the table next to me.

In this case a stack of old children's books.

I'm almost afraid to read that precious edition of Honey Bunch's first trip to camp.  It's a 1925 edition and in great shape.  My sister-in-law and I share a love of these old books.  She let me borrow it and as she handed it to me she jokingly said " I wouldn't let just anybody borrow it."  I would hate to be the one to cause any damage after it hanging around so nicely all these years.  So, I plan to refrain from eating or drinking anything while reading this one.  Ha!

Now, as I sit here typing this, the rain has stopped.

Evening is moving in.  The skies are still cloudy.

I'm watching a variety of bird friends checking on the (now empty) feeder.  Male and female cardinals, chickadees, goldfinches and the always amusing tufted titmouse seem to be asking "where's dinner?"  So, I am off to fill the feeder.  It's the least I can do for them.  They who add so much joy and beauty to my days.

Then, I guess I'd better feed the hubby too as he also adds joy to my days.  Come to think of it I'd better tend to Peanut first.  I may already be on her bad side :D.