I think I left my good hiking boots at your place last weekend. The ones with the red laces. I remember setting them by the door after we came back from that trail near the river, but I was in such a hurry to catch the train that I must have forgotten them. Could you check the mudroom or the closet by the entrance? If they're there, no rush at all — just hang on to them until we meet up again. I was thinking maybe we could try that new loop trail north of town next time. It's supposed to have some decent elevation gain but the views at the top are worth it. I saw some photos online and the ridge line looks incredible in the late afternoon light. Let me know if you're free sometime next week. I can bring snacks and extra water if you want. Also, I finally picked up that map we were talking about, the one with the detailed topo lines. It covers the whole section we haven't explored yet. Let me know about the boots when you get a second. No worries if they're not there, I might have left them at the car instead.

I finally tried that sourdough recipe you sent me last month and it actually turned out decent. The first attempt was a total disaster — I think I killed the starter by leaving it too close to the window where it got cold overnight. The second time I kept it in the pantry and fed it on a strict schedule. The crumb was a bit tight but the crust had a nice crackle and the flavor was tangy without being overpowering. I added a little whole wheat flour to the mix and that gave it a subtle nutty taste. I want to try shaping it better next time because my loaf came out a bit lopsided. I saw a video where the baker does this really gentle tension fold before the final proof and it seems to make a difference in how the loaf holds its shape. Anyway, I'll bring you a slice when I come over next. Let me know if you want the full recipe or if you've tweaked yours recently. I'm also thinking about trying a rye version soon.