Today marks the the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer can be unpleasant here so this isn't something we normally celebrate. This summer may live up to its negative reputation with more of the horrific heatwaves that have become increasingly common in recent years but, given that the day started out with a touch of rain, unseasonably pleasant temperatures, and a smog-free horizon, I'm feeling good about our prospects at the moment. Even with
jackhammers ringing in the background, the season started off on a positive note.
 |
| The rain scrubbed the air clean and left the horizon clear of its usual gray-brown tinge |
 |
| View looking across my front garden |
 |
| Although the clouds moved in as evening fell, the chance of more overnight rain evaporated; however, the morning marine layer is expected to keep us cool for the next several days at least |
I hope your summer is off to a good start too.
All material © 2012-2019 by Kris Peterson for Late to the Garden Party
Happy Summer Solstice! Although I don't like the heat of summer either, which we've been getting increasing amounts of in the PNW, I do like the longer days and think they're worth celebrating. I would spend all of the daylight hours out in the garden if I didn't have to come in and eat (and feed the husband).
ReplyDeleteHa! I feel the same, Alison. Unfortunately, my husband insists on ringing the dinner bell precisely at 6pm no matter how much useful sunlight is still left in the day.
DeleteJust returned from three weeks in England. The evenings are SO lovely as the sun doesn't begin to go down til at least 10 PM. I love it. And then, by 4 AM it's totally light. And, of course, back to the nineties and humidity!
ReplyDeleteSoCal doesn't experience the really long days the UK and parts of the northern US like Alaska enjoy but I appreciate even what we get, especially when it's as cool as it's been of late.
DeleteWow, that is an unusually clear horizon! Glad to hear your cool temps continue. I'm really enjoying these longer days, so nice to be outside after supper.
ReplyDeleteYesterday was an anomaly - much of the usual haze was already back today. But it was nice while it lasted!
DeleteHappy Summer! I’m glad you’re celebrating, if even just for a short period of time.
ReplyDeleteIt does look like the marine layer is thinning with each passing day but it's still on the pleasant end of the spectrum today.
DeleteYou got some beautiful photos of your surrounds with the grey skies washed away. I hope this is a good omen for your area and you have a pleasant summer.
ReplyDeleteIf wishes can make it true, it'll happen, Lisa. Mother Nature is a tough customer, though.
DeleteYour garden looks so lush and colorful! I don't think it was that colorful in L.A. when I spent a summer out there in 1980. Believe it or not, our summers here in Madison are hotter than yours, and more humid. I didn't realize it until I spent some time out there. People often don't realize that we get really hot and really cold. Your views of the valley are so spectacular, Kris!
ReplyDeleteCalifornia's temperatures vary dramatically depending on where you are, Beth. While we're not in a Goldilock's comfort zone (those would be cities like Santa Monica and even my former area, Redondo Beach), we're a good deal cooler than the inland valleys and or course places like Death Valley!
DeleteThe views from your garden are incredible - hopefully you have a more pleasant summer than predicted & can take full advantage.
ReplyDeleteThe marine layer is back in full force this morning, which blocks most of the view of the harbor but keeps the temperature down so that's positive. I don't expect we'll avoid summer's heat indefinitely, however.
Delete