Can I tell you how much I have loved the rainy days? I have had fun watching the clouds bump up against the mountains--competing as to which will look the most ominous and gloomy. I love the purples, blues and greys and the shapes and the movement. I like the coolness (except for the cold feet) and the way the green of the emerging leaves on the trees and the thickening grass and growing plants has more depth against the shadows than in bright light.

I love the mama duck who walks across the street to visit early every morning. We have confirmed there is a nest and we look forward to the baby ducks.

I also love having something concrete to prepare for. England Manchester. At the end of August. In fact the weather this week reminds me of the few days I spend in England a long time ago. It's going to be great--and he's going to love it.