September 7, 2024- It was only a matter of time before September Swelter gave way to the beginnings of autumn. This afternoon was that time, and a good soaking rain came to us. The phenomenon of late summer heat, known in the East and Midwest as “Indian Summer” is about as welcome as a Spring snowfall, but year after year, the Earth releases pent -up heat into the atmosphere, which is drying out after the monsoon- and so it stays, sometimes into October, which then may be called Aug-tober. The heat, of course, generates its own moisture, so here we are.

Elsewhere, rain comes late (Texas and Oklahoma experience September thunder showers) or comes early and hangs on (The Philippines and the mainland of southeast Asia are getting this weather now, much of it caused by typhoons). The Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico are also prone to heavy rains, about now, though this year’s hurricane season has seen fewer, but more powerful, storms.

Today’s rain came in two stages: Very early this morning and around early afternoon, just as we were finishing breakdown at the Farmer’s Market. I will be away from this service, for six weeks, so am hoping that at least one person returns from his hiatus. More is anticipated tomorrow, and I am hoping for a fortuitous “scheduling” of the wetness, to spare Empty Bowls, between 11-2, about which more in the next post.