Let it rain

Anyone who knows me understands that if I have to stay cooped up indoors for too long, I get a little weird. Or ... a lot weird. So, even though it's a tropical storm passing overhead, I had to get out for a walk this morning.

I went before the storm really kicked into gear. It wasn't too windy yet, though the rain drenched me almost immediately in spite of all the clothing technology that's supposed to keep me dry. I didn't care. The rain was like bathwater, the air thick and hot. It was very fun knowing that Hanna was pouring the Caribbean Sea all over Washington.

Saturdays are usually very busy days on Capitol Hill, especially in and around Eastern Market, our wonderful local farmer's and flea market. This morning, folks from other neighborhoods and from the suburbs stayed home. It was just us locals out there walking around. I saw Susan the pottery artist, Nick, our local city government representative, Larry the dentist, and many of my clients. One dad and his two sons were jumping up and down in a big puddle, no raincoats, no umbrellas, no wellies. He looked at me as I walked past and said, "We couldn't resist." All of us were smiling. Made me think of my beloved Pod who used to sit in rain puddles as a child.

Everyone who dared to go out was in a fine mood. Even strangers smiled at me as we exchanged a knowing look. One woman said, "I think this feels good!" I completely agree.

What I didn't see on my walk was a single bird or squirrel. They have the sense to tuck themselves away from the weather. My species is not quite as sensible.

Right now (around 11:30 a.m.) Brother Wind is starting to blow and the rain is coming down even harder than it was an hour ago. I'm content to drink tea, read and watch movies for the rest of the day, now that I've had my taste of Hanna.

I am very grateful to live in a dry and cozy space, to have the luxury (as Lettuce says) of enjoying the storm's drama from a safe space. I am in awe, as always, of the weather. Bravo, Weather Gods! Well done you!