So after looking at the soil test results I think we should go with tomatoes and peppers in the raised beds along the south fence line. The drainage there is much better than the north side and those crops really need full sun to produce well. I checked the forecast and it looks like we have a solid window coming up next weekend to get everything planted before the next rain system moves in. You will want to amend the soil with some compost first about three inches worked into the top foot of soil. The starter plants from the nursery looked healthy last time I stopped by and they had a good selection of Roma and cherry tomato varieties. I also saw they just got in some bell pepper starts that looked sturdy. If we get them in the ground by Saturday morning that gives them a full week to establish before the temperatures climb again. I can bring the tiller over Friday evening if that works for you. We should also put down some straw mulch around the base to help with moisture retention and keep the weeds down. Let me know if you want to adjust the plan at all.

I also picked up a few bags of organic garden soil from the supply store yesterday. It should be enough to top off all three beds. I will drop them off when I come over with the tiller.

The trail up to Eagle Lake was in great shape when I went last week. The recent dry weather has kept the path firm and easy to follow with no muddy sections to deal with. I started from the lower trailhead around seven in the morning and made it to the lake by about ten thirty with a couple of short breaks along the way. The switchbacks after the second creek crossing are still a bit rocky so hiking boots with good ankle support are definitely recommended. I saw quite a few wildflowers blooming near the meadow section about halfway up which was a nice surprise. The lake itself was crystal clear and there were only a few other people there when I arrived. I packed a light lunch and stayed for about an hour before heading back down. The descent took about an hour and forty minutes. If you decide to go I would suggest bringing plenty of water and a light jacket because it gets breezy up at the lake. The parking lot was about half full when I left so it is getting more popular.

One thing I forgot to mention earlier there is a small stream crossing about a quarter mile before the lake that can be tricky if the water is high right now it is only about ankle deep so easy to cross but after a heavy rain it could be different.