There You Are, El Niño!

This was not my intended post for today, but El Niño showed up in a BIG way yesterday bringing nearly an inch of rain to Bakersfield. There's been some teasing this winter, but nothing like the rain that we had yesterday. 

Driving to the barn ... yes, those are oil derricks.

Let me put it this way: in the four winters that I've been at my current barn, there hasn't been a rainy day where I thought, "I don't think I'm going to get to ride tomorrow."

I don't think i am riding today.

I moved to this barn just as California's drought was settling in for a good long stay. Every time it rained, I did the happy dance because it meant that I didn't have to water. Yes, I water in the winter; it's been that dry.

I don't think i am going to be able to ride today.

Even when it does rain, it's usually just enough to maybe soak the dust down, if I am lucky. Within a day or two, we're dealing with dust again, and there are never puddles. Until Yesterday.

A puddle!

We need the rain more than a non-Californian can even imagine. In the southern part of California's southern valley, where I live, we've had less than 10 inches in the last four years combined. While our drought might not seem to be something that affects you directly, I bet you've eaten grapes, almonds, beef, or wine from California.  This drought has been devastating to our economy, air quality, and over-all quality of life. I am grateful that my arena is a bit soggy.

My drive home!

The funny thing is that while I probably can't ride today, I am feeling confident things will be dry by Tuesday, Wednesday at the latest. That's California for ya!