May 12 Day 65: The Smell of Rain

There is something comforting about the smell of rain through the bedroom window, especially on a day filled with teaching and zoom obligations. Yes, I know there is a word to describe the smell, petrichor. As my microbiologist husband reminds me, I should be thanking the soil bacteria, Streptomyces, for producing geosmin, the molecule that my nose detects.

Certainly the smell conjures hopeful feelings of growth and prosperity. But more importantly, it promises a day of grey skies. I can sit in the home office, remotely teach my classes, attend my meetings, and be content to stay indoors.

Dedicated to Dr. Mark O. Martin. See, I really do listen to you.