I realize "weather" is a pretty common topic, but sometimes one just has to write about it. The weather certainly affects our lives and livelihood.

Over a 24 hours period, my rain gauge measured four inches of precipitation two days ago. That's a lot of water, especially when the ground is already saturated. I don't think I've ever seen so much water standing in the fields.

Farmers are really worried about getting their corn and soybeans planted. It's crunch time. Of course, come August, they'll be praying for rain, but for now, they're praying for the opposite.

I'm lucky to have gotten my veggies planted already. I couldn't roto-till the ground, so I just dug trenches for my seeds, or hand planted individual plants--like 30 sweet potatoes. However, I have a major weed problem which will require some intensive bending over eradication. That'll be great on my already ailing back.

But it's nothing compared to my daughter and son-in-law's labor in planting their multi-acre organic vegetable farm. They have planted thousands of individual onions, potatoes, tomatoes....., well, I could go on and on. I'm so impressed with all the hard work and effort they've put in to make their farm successful (www.tranquilridgefarm.com, if you're curious). This is their first year at their present location, so you can imagine what it takes to start up an operation from scratch. Furthermore, they're restoring a 150 yr old farm house there. Plus, she's pregnant. Amazing kids, recovering from bankruptcy due to 3 unsold restored homes they did.

The weather forecast says sunny days ahead--in more ways than one! Let's hope they're right.