Hey, I finally got around to fixing that old dresser I picked up at the flea market last fall. It had a lot more damage than I initially thought, especially on the back panel where someone had tried to repair a crack with duct tape of all things. I stripped all the old varnish off and decided to go with a lighter stain that really brings out the grain. The original hardware was tarnished but after a good soak in vinegar and a polish, it actually looks pretty decent now. I am thinking about adding some new drawer liners just to finish it off properly. Let me know if you want to come take a look before I decide on the final top coat. I could use a second opinion on whether to go matte or satin finish for the top surface. Also your advice about the drawer alignment was spot on — I adjusted the slides and everything closes smoothly now.

Oh and thanks for recommending that little hardware shop on Fifth. They had exactly the kind of brass pulls I was looking for and the owner gave me a great tip on how to keep them from tarnishing again. I might stop by again this weekend to pick up some felt pads for the bottom.

I finally got around to reading that book you recommended last month. I know it took me forever but I wanted to really take my time with it and not rush through the chapters. The way the author describes the coastal landscape makes you feel like you are standing right there on the cliffs watching the waves come in. I found myself rereading several passages just to soak in the imagery. The character development was slower than I expected but by the middle of the book I was completely invested in their stories. I think my favorite part was the chapter about the old lighthouse keeper and how he kept a journal of every ship that passed during the winter storms. Let me borrow the second book when you are done with it if you already picked it up. I heard the sequel shifts perspective to a different character entirely which sounds like a bold move but I am curious to see how it plays out.

Also I wanted to ask about that hiking trail we talked about last time. I checked the weather forecast and next Saturday looks like it might be clear enough for a long day out. I can bring sandwiches and that thermos of coffee you liked from the cafe downtown. Let me know if you are free.