We finally settled on Saturday the 15th for the backyard cleanup and everyone seemed good with that timing. I think if we start around 8am we can knock out the raking and trimming before it gets too hot. Afterward we were thinking about firing up the grill—nothing fancy, just some burgers and maybe those stuffed peppers you made last time. Do you think that would work on your end? Also wanted to check if you still have that extra folding table we could borrow because we might need another surface for the side dishes. Let me know if you want me to pick up anything specific from the store when I go Friday afternoon. I was planning to grab some charcoal and maybe a couple bags of ice. We should have enough chairs but if you have a couple extras bring them along. The kids can just use blankets on the grass. I think the weather is supposed to cooperate so fingers crossed.

I finally got around to trying that sourdough starter you mentioned and it actually turned out way better than I expected. The first couple days I thought I messed it up because there was barely any bubbling but by day four it really came alive. I fed it twice a day with equal parts flour and water and kept it on the counter near the window where it got some indirect light. The first loaf I baked was a little dense but the second one had a really nice open crumb and the crust was perfectly crackly. I think the key was letting it bulk ferment longer than I thought it needed. I used a mix of bread flour and whole wheat and the flavor had this nice subtle tang without being overpowering. Next weekend I want to try adding some seeds or maybe even a little rosemary. If you have any tips for shaping without deflating all the air let me know because I'm still getting the hang of that part. I also want to try a cold overnight proof in the fridge to see if that deepens the flavor even more.