Rain Monster

Freshly arrived in Berlin we needed tickets for public transportation and wanted a monthly unlimited pass - it's much more relaxed that way. And the station was only two-ish miles away. So we walked. In the rain. Nothing serious. A splish, splash, and spray. Cold too. I'm afraid it all warranted a rain monster sighting. And a stop at Museuminsel. 

Historic Rain

Florida rain is dramatic and unapologetic. It comes down so hard, it's practically like driving through a car wash, which is convenient during love bug season. But when you have visitors from out of town, rain becomes a thankless inconvenience. Yet, with a little planning and a bit of luck, it can become a beautiful diversion - especially if you encourage your guests to indulge in some Tampa Bay history and traipse through the Tampa Bay History Center during the downpour.

I love, love, love the way they create exhibits at museums these days. Things to do, fun ways of looking at things and life-size replicas all make it so entertaining that one forgets there is learning happening. Having been through the museum before, we sat at the cafe and watched the rain over coffee and cappuccino. As the sun began peeking, the colors began singing and we put our feet to work once more.

Through the Windshield

We spent two rainy weeks in Pennsylvania before driving south to our Florida home. I was sitting in the car at a rest stop and although the skies were gray I was delighted by how softly the raindrops splattered on the windshield, smudging the fall colors in view.

Not too long after we arrived home I opened up the picture and when I looked closely at the detail - wow! It almost looks painted. And really, it was painted on my windshield, by the rain. A lovely consolation gift for the sunshine fasting.