We got rain! A real gully washer that left plants washed, seeds encouraged, and our attitudes improved. Later when hiking, I saw the ever-efficient ocotillo which had leafed out because of the rain. But the new leaves on the first day are almost an unnatural green. If a painter used this color for them, it would seem that she had never really seen an ocotillo. But there it was! Within a few days, the leaves will darken. And with any luck, we will get more rain.
Always Backroads 
I was in SW Colorado last week when the monsoon arrived. It put a bit of a damper on my activities but I know it was badly needed. I understand most of the fires are completely out or under control – finally!