Ah, the weather. Where would we be, what would we speak of when we meet in social groups, if we  hadn't the weather to discuss, exclaim our pleasure, dismay, censure and appreciation of and how we're coping, on alternate occasions. And since July 1st is Canada's 150th birthday, nature has decided to give us a very special gift.

Yesterday was a 'tolerable' 32C, under bright blue skies. Tolerable, because most people sought relief in air-conditioning, and others sought the pleasure of being out under open skies to appreciate summer freedom and the invitation to pursue summer recreational fun. We found it strange that through the length of our hour-and-a-half circuit through the forest trails in the ravine early yesterday afternoon we came across only one other person, our old friend Max.

He theorized that everyone imagined it would be intolerably hot out in the forest under its sheltering canopy. Perhaps most people might think that, but those who regularly hike those trails must surely know that the canopy's effect is to send a broad screen over the landscape, preventing the sun's hot rays from penetrating. With a slight breeze, the prevailing temperature could just about rival any air conditioning system.

And so, our ramble in the ravine, even at our slower rate caused by my carefully measured speed taking into account post-surgical caution not to exceed reasonable exertion was most pleasant indeed. Affording all of us, inclusive of Jackie and Jillie, ample opportunity to observe and to take our pleasure while sharing our delight in the vibrancy of the landscape we were immersed within.

As for the gift from nature, it is destined to continue. Today, another 32C day, with an extreme thunderstorm warning in effect. And the possibilities of a series of thunderstorms overnight. That will be followed by 33C on Sunday, Canada Day; 35C on Monday; 33C on Tuesday; 36C for Wednesday; back down to 33C for Thursday and relief at last! on Friday, at 28C!

Last night the temperature cooled down to 20C by eleven and I went out to see how the garden was faring. Everything appears ship-shape there, nothing is suffering, in fact the heat continues to accelerate growth and flowers are happily blooming. It helps that much of the garden is in shade for the greater part of the late afternoon unlike the backyard garden beds, in the full glare of the sun.