It’s been windy, rainy, and cool in Austin today. After nearly a month with no significant precipitation, we’ve received about half an inch of rain over the last twenty-four hours. The only thing I did outside today was take a few photos of raindrops hanging from the bare tree branches:

Nathan composed a more dynamic shot of rain falling into a puddle next to the back patio:

In addition to taking photos, I bought some hooks for organizing tools in the garden shed, and I continued to brainstorm design ideas for the backyard. (I’ve been daydreaming about more raised beds, a children’s garden, and chickens.)

Tomorrow is supposed to be mostly sunny and warmer than today. I hope the forecast holds, since we have plans to visit a friend’s garden tomorrow afternoon.

***

At Blackwater Pond

by Mary Oliver

At Blackwater Pond the tossed waters have settled
after a night of rain.
I dip my cupped hands. I drink
a long time. It tastes
like stone, leaves, fire. It falls cold
into my body, waking the bones. I hear them
deep inside me, whispering
oh what is that beautiful thing
that just happened?