April Showers

The downpour started suddenly.  We'd had a few light showers during the day, but this was different (particularly since we were outside).   The rain fell so fast and hard it looked like fog in the forest and plants leaves danced, being pounded and smacked by the monstrous raindrops.

We had a few moments of calm before the storm.  We heard our first black-headed grosbeak of the year and we found a new-to-me flower, Lonicera ciliosa, orange honeysuckle.

Unfortunately, we also discovered the identity of the plant that has sprung to life in vast quantities, the non-native Geranium lucidum. Given its prolific growth, I just knew it had to be something we didn't want!

The downed oak tree is still lively, with leaves sprouting all over what is now the top of tree. Amazing to see how it is adapting to its new condition.

Then the rain started. Only minutes after diving into the car, we were treated to a flash of lightning, a rumble of thunder, and the rain turned to a ratatat of hail.