... is sitting on the screened porch, with a morning cup of coffee, in a thunderstorm—watching and listening as the rain comes raining down.

The new downspouts got their first test, and performed well.

The storm was brief, but powerful enough to wash away the memory (and other stuff) left behind by all the caterpillars; to perk up the garden; and to rejuvenate the beleaguered forest. And then, shortly after noon, we were treated to another storm. And then, a bit later, an hour or so of just moderately steady rain. Who could ask for anything more?

When the sky finally cleared, the wind came roaring in—a full gale from the west.

A few minutes before supper cook-time Sue suggested a trip to the marina to check the boats. That was a bright idea. Conditions rough in the harbor, with considerable bouncing and chafing. But with extra lines, and variouis readjustments, we feel confident all will be well until the wind subsides.