Atmospheric river

 We did receive some much needed rain, just under 1".  Less than what was predicted, but thrilling nonetheless.  I woke up to some crazy orange skies on the 22nd, rain started about 10 a.m.

Most importantly, it was my sweet son's birthday 😀.  Happy Birthday Vincent!

He requested vanilla cupcakes, I couldn't resist making chocolate as well. 

Ivan and Sophia joined us to celebrate, Ivan bringing some fun plants over.  *I never know what he's got up his sleeve, but it's usually always a plant! A little weedy Yucca rostrata, replacement phylica pubescens -1 of the 3 I planted in spring kicked the bucket.

Helichrysum retortum, a South African strawflower -I have one of these and it handled the hot dry summer like a champ. Fine silvery foliage and stayed tight & tidy. Blooms are small and daisy like.

Artemisia versicolor 'Sea Foam' -Soft & frothy.  

And a dry greenhouse group, we left them out for one day of rain.  His planting mix is incredibly fast draining, so a good soaking is fine.

Also, a fun order from Waltzing Matilija arrived (IN ONE DAY, I couldn't believe it - ordered it and it was on my porch the next afternoon).  Acacia glaucoptera, Acacia merinthophora, Leucadendron winter red, Eucalyptus pleurocarpa, 

Banksia nivea, ooh this is so pretty. Reminds me of the snip snip of pinking shears.

Banksia petiolaris, look at that cute new leaf. 

I have a stupid head cold, I'm sure from traveling.  But did spend some time outside picking up leaves.  

Of course, there are a few more weeks of leaves dropping to look forward to 😖.

The rain drops on the Cleistocactus strausii, silver torch were so pretty.  I couldn't capture the crystal droplets in the sun.  I'll try again.

Looks more like soggy wet hair, hahaha.

I hope everyone has a fantastic and relaxing Thanksgiving Holiday! Hopefully my next post will be a triumphant return to the building of the lath house.