#NewThisDay Writing From My Photo Stream

Gloriosa Daisy, Rainy Summer Evening

A washout of a day. Not without activity outdoors. A good drenching for the earth. Frank and I work outside in the rain. He helps me plant two of the magnolias I bought. I weed as well, I plant lavender and one eggplant to add to the rest. My back is problematic. I hope to overcome it, but it’s very sore, so I work carefully and try not to overdue. I replace the scorched annuals in plots. Frank says “Well, it’s not unpleasant to work in this weather,” and I agree. I stop at the brook and watch the pelting of the ran setting it swirling, and the whole overflowing brook is swaddled in green fern. Frank uses the tractor to help me move a pile of small rocks I’ve previously gathered by the brook for the garden that needs edging. The girls are both here and we have a kind of a restful day. Almost all of us suffering back pain! It’s a drowsy day; I have a two hour nap, so so deliciously relaxing. The rain never lets up, really. This is a rare soaking rain day and the temp is low and I feel so for all those who are camping or summering in a cottage or whose 4th of July plans are soaked out. Tonight I stroll in the yard in the rain just a bit before it’s dark. The Gloriosa daisy pictured here just appeared this year, healthy and vibrant in the middle of the rhododendron garden. Three years ago we scattered a bucket of wildflower seeds all over the property and only a few have bloomed, and those that have show up in strange places. She’s a cheerful friend, and welcome, and lovely in all weather. Especially, perhaps, in rain, a reminder of deep and nourishing sunshine, and that it shall return.