The rains have been extreme this year and we see evidence of it in many places.  When we open a new packet of salt, it is so damp that we have to dry it out in the oven before we can use it.  During one storm, the wind was strong and it blew lots of seeds from a little red-leafed tree I had planted.  The excessive rain caused the seeds to sprout into little red trees in the grass and some of the flower beds.  They had to be removed, of course.  A friend helped me and lo and behold the next day the friend’s face, eyes and feet were swollen.  Little did I know I had planted a pretty, red poisonous tree!  Thankfully, most of the rains are finished now and the sun has been shining for a few days.  You step out the door first thing in the morning, breathe in the fresh air and your spirits get lifted and you begin to think you can conquer the world (well, maybe your own household).

Mona Bowles, Zambia