Spring in the Rain Forest

As summer approaches, the growing season around here takes off and everything - grass, flowers, trees, goes crazy. Not only is all the local flora (and fauna for that matter) putting on a show, but the rainstorms themselves start to take on a different quality as the season progresses. We live on the outskirts of the rain forest here, and while it is not nearly so wet as points further west, I can't think of a more perfect place to be than here on my part of the peninsula. It's difficult to put into words the sight and sounds of a spring rain in the forest for those who have never been someplace like this. The sound of water trickling down through the canopy of trees, the din of bird song and frog croaks, sunlight trying to peek through here and there, the sheer green-ness of everything, all a sight to behold. Just a walk to the mailbox is a feast for the senses. (Click to enlarge pictures.)

The road to the mailbox,

part of the forest I walk through on the way there,
ferns dripping with rain
and my driveway on the walk back.

Even the berry vines, full of blossoms, are especially lovely when they are dripping with rain drops.

Living here, with four distinct seasons, is a joyous existence at any time of year, but Mother Nature really outdoes herself when spring turns to summer. It may not be the Garden of Eden, but it's close enough for me.