The rain came . . .

Gently at first, then it stopped for a while before resuming and getting heavier. It rained for most of the day but the ground seemed barely damp, so dry was it before. Muggy and cool. Depressingly grey but welcome too, or at least necessary. How quickly we miss the warm sun!

The rhododendron blossom seemed appropriately cool for today's blip. There are fewer blooms on it than usual but plenty growth after cutting it back last year - it is still way too big for the space it occupies - they are difficult to manage and get right. But the blossom is wonderfully blowsy and the deep aroma intoxicating.