Rain Storms and Sunsets

Now that we're at a stable and staggering 50-60 degrees, the storms that would otherwise be bringing in snow are now bringing in rain. I must say, this is a welcome change. It gives the soul a serious lift to see everything coming back to life, the grass returning to it's lush green color, and the sky staying light all the way until late into the evening. 

The constant slew of spring and summer storms just seems to make everything pop, too, once it tapers off and the clouds begin to separate. I always appreciated this back home, because it was very obvious the day after a good rain. The smog leaves temporarily and everything just always seems so vibrant. Imagine that being every day. During the warmer months, everything here just is so vivid and colorful and its beauty really is hard to beat. I love me some ocean and beach, but the intense greenery here just holds my heart. 

Of course, I took advantage of this and broke out my camera. Finally, something more exciting than a snow pile to capture! And, as if the lack of snow wasn't calling me enough, the fact that the clouds cleared right at sunset and made everything glitter in this utterly delicious way just sealed the deal. When little things like this happen, you just can't leave it to be ignored. The result was some ridiculous bokeh and just outright gorgeous photos with this beautiful flare from the sun setting. 

And to think, too, that this was all just in my backyard. 

P.S. This was the first time I shot in manual!