First time this year, I just heard that familiar yet unwelcome seasonal sound overhead.

A C-130, loaded with retardant and flying out of the nearby National Interagency Fire Center. It was probably headed to a new fire that just started northwest of here.

We've been fortunate so far this year with an unusually cool and pleasant June and no smoke. July heated up just like a switch was thrown and our customary 95-105 temps have arrived with smoke soon to follow — probably into September.

In this area 45 years ago the 30 year average of the highest summertime temps was 92 degrees. Now it is 95. I'm guessing if the period was changed to the last 5 or 10 years the average would be closer to 97 or 98. Its not going anywhere but up.

Oh well.