I was just telling my colleague about that hiking trail we did last weekend. The weather turned out perfect and the views at the summit were completely worth the early start. I think we only saw maybe a dozen other people the whole morning. The wildflowers are starting to bloom now so it's a great time to go again. My legs were sore for two days but honestly it felt great to be outside for hours. We packed sandwiches and ate them on a big flat rock overlooking the valley. There's something about eating outdoors that makes everything taste better. Next time I want to try the loop that goes around the lake. I heard it's about three miles longer but much flatter. I'll send you the map link later if you want. Anyway, just wanted to share how good it was. Hope you can join next time.

Oh I ended up finishing that novel you recommended. It took me a few chapters to get into it but once the main character left the city I was completely hooked. The way the author describes the coastline made me want to book a trip somewhere coastal this summer. I think my favorite part was the unexpected friendship that formed near the end. It felt real and not forced. I also liked how the subplot about the old lighthouse tied everything together. Have you read anything else by that author? I might look for their earlier work next. The pacing was a bit slow in the middle but overall it was a satisfying read. I stayed up way too late a couple nights because I couldn't put it down. Let me know if you have other suggestions – I'm in the mood for something similar. I can drop off the book at your place next week if you want it back.