Spring Rain

We haven't had any significant rainfall in weeks and things were beginning to look a little thirsty. But last night and early this morning the storms that tortured Texas swept through here but fortunately they had already vented their fury and all that remained was a good hard spring rain.
Here in the south when it's dry for a spell, exhaust, antifreeze and oil byproducts collect on the road forming a hard tacky ooze. No problem...until it rains. That first precipitation turns the viscosity of the ooze into a surface that is not unlike ice hosed off with olive oil.
What's interesting here in Alabama is that people tend to drive faster in this situation to offset the lack of traction and control. NASCAR is big here and driving is considered a sport by many and it can turn even the most timid people into drivers from Hades.
On the way to work this morning I passed a Mustang that had slammed against a retaining wall. Traffic was moving at a snail's pace because of the accident and I got a good look at the driver. I could tell that he was dumbfounded that his Ford faltered simply because he was driving 80 across three inches of water on the interstate. He walked away, but they picked his Mustang up in sections. I doubt anyone will ever have to tell him again to slow down when it rains.
The rain moved off to the east by midday and this evening the world looks fresher...greener. Lettuice we planted a few days ago in planters on the back porch sprouted up in the last ten hours and well be having fresh greens for dinner in a matter of weeks.
I love this time of year.