... sort of. The walks in the courtyard are reflecting the early morning sky after a little rain fell. It's a wonderful thing to see even though it is only rain enough to keep the dust blowing for a while, certainly not enough to make any difference to the drought that has Texas -- especially Central Texas -- cracking from the dryness. There have been some beautiful days lately; sunny; mild; perfect, really. But oh, what I would give for good torrential rain. One that transforms any small creek into raging rivers, that brings thunder and lightning and big fat drops of rain that make a loud thud when they hit the ground. What I would give for the metallic smell that fills the air just before a storm, and the smell of dirt getting its first few drops of quenching rain.
I can't even remember the last time that that happened. I think it's been a year, maybe. It hurts to see the effect of that on the Hill Country surrounding Austin. It shows, too, on livestock -- skinny cows, scraggly sheep, and goats that aren't being very productive.
I know it will rain again. I only hope it's my lifetime.
