Aside from a trip out for groceries today, we decided to stay in and not drive to New Jersey for a pumpkin carving party. Local news reports a record-setting 7.25 inches of rain dumped on the area in the last two days, after two months of drought. There are all kinds of moderate flooding, power outages, and some event cancellations. The storms brought chilly air that feels like the first tickle of winter. But instead of a mass die-out of our fall foliage, the waterlogged ground will ensure a colorful display of leaves this month.

- mike lee - wheaton, md