Today after a long reprieve from rain, I looked up with anticipation at the menacing clouds eating up the blue sky. Before long, that familiar gray Oregonian sky overtook. Protected by my covered porch, I leisurely swayed in my hammock chair to watch nature unfold. Closing my eyes, I sense that sweet, powerful, evocative smell of fresh rain. I breathe in deeply that wonderful earthy smell, I am hooked. Eagerly, I step away from the security of my shelter. Into the rain I gleefully stroll, feeling the raindrops alight upon my skin.

My mind revisits fond memories of playing in the rain as a child. Oh, how I loved jumping in puddles and sticking out my tongue to catch a few drops and savor the taste. My inner child surfaces again as I find myself revitalized and energized as I wander about.

Through the woods, I saunter, fascinated by the scenes before me. Lime green moss envelops trees, small cracks in the ground begin shrinking, leaves are bent; some depositing their load of raindrops on my head. The effect of those tiny waterfalls elevates my spirits and leaves me feeling restored.

I ponder and recognize the connection once more of all the beauty around me linked to the life-cycle of rain. Slowing down, I vigilantly observe the raindrops descending into the stream. Enchanted with the view, I perch myself on a wooden footbridge, mesmerized and captivated by the symmetrical show. Feeling the need to capture the bloom on the water, I reach for my phone to snap a few shots so I might share them with you.

Onward I go, as the soft rain turns into a burst of heavy rain. It drenches my clothing, but not my desire to continue my peaceful ramble. I head for the garden and find myself smiling and giggling as the sky lightens and the sun reveals itself again. The rain-kissed berries and grapes taste even sweeter. Everywhere I glance, everything looks refreshed. I emerge rejuvenated too!

I wonder just how many of us truly appreciate the raindrops and the life they bring to everything. I know how fortunate I am to have the opportunity to see nature spring to life firsthand. I hope that any of you living in wetter climes can appreciate, rather than begrudge, the rain as it comes back into season. Let the rains begin!!!