Guess what....

....you got it, another smoky day! But how many days can that be part of my title? Actually it was a wee bit better today. We saw some sun shining through the smoke for a little while this afternoon. But sadly, despite all of the rain dancing you guys have been doing for us, no rain tonight. Now it's going to rain Thursday...a bit of rain anyway...less than a 1/4 inch. But the air is definitely moister which is great. And the conditions are slightly better for fighting the fires. 

Here's an interesting article in National Geographic about the fires here, if you're so inclined: Oregon Fires

My blip today is an Abutilon, or Flowering Maple. This one is called "Smoked Salmon" appropriately enough. It's a gorgeous plant that was created by Xera Plants here in Portland Xera Plants. It's hardy to USDA Zone 9a...a little tender for us in our Zone 8b but with some winter protection it's fine. Here's it's looking like it's had a lovely, soaking rain, which of course you know is completely made up by yours truly with a spray bottle. Hope springs eternal!

Thank you all so much for your very kind thoughts for us here in western Oregon.