After the rain

I don't remember when we last had any rain. Its not really mattered for  a while. I've just been enjoying the sunshine. I've gardened with the sun on my back, planted new plants, divided my perennials, sowed my peas and broad beans, hoed the borders.  And when I've needed a break I've sat down in the sunshine with a cup of tea and enjoyed.

But after a while the lack of rain has become a  problem, the veg plot and newly planted perennials were looking dry and in need of more moisture. Getting the hose pipe out every evening  was becoming a chore. I was looking forward to some rain.

The rain finally arrived and after weeks of being outside I had to do indoor things, like ironing and tidying up, tackling those jobs which had been piling up.

I get a bit restless when I have to be inside for too long, so when the rain eased off and the sun started to shine later in the afternoon, I was glad to get outside and potter around the garden.

It was when I got outside that I noticed the difference. There was a freshness to the garden, the lush green of the plants contrasted well against the dark damp soil.  Plants which had been a bit sad looking had perked up.

But best of all was the smell. The smell of the soil, the greenery, the lilacs, was just wonderful, almost intoxicating. Hosepipes are good but you can't beat a good shower of rain.