Rain is a Four-Letter Word

"Into each life a little rain must fall" observed the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, although probably not with April showers in mind--or that rain is a four-letter word. Nevertheless, spring rain builds up reserves in the soil against later desiccation. Early perennials and bulbs welcome it--and so do slugs. Lawns greening up are a reminder that lawnmowers require servicing. Time too for checking blades of spades, hoes and lawn edgers. Sharpening with a flat file can make the difference between modest exercise and an aching back.