Regarding your question about the garden layout: I think starting with the raised beds along the south side makes the most sense because they'll get full sun from mid-morning through late afternoon. We should use cedar for the frames since it holds up well against moisture and doesn't need chemical treatment. For the soil mix, I'd recommend two parts topsoil, one part compost, and one part perlite for good drainage. The tomatoes and peppers will go in the deepest bed (about 18 inches) while the herbs and lettuce can manage with 10 inches. I've already sketched a rough plan with measurements if you want to take a look before we order materials. Also, the drip irrigation kit I mentioned earlier arrived yesterday and it has enough tubing for about 50 feet of run, which should cover all three beds. Let me know if you want to adjust the spacing or add anything else before I confirm the lumber order.
OMAHA STEAKS
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Gourmet Steak Sampler Announcement

A curated selection of hand-selected cuts, now available to participants through this program.

Omaha Steaks is pleased to make 500 gourmet sampler boxes available through this program. Each box, which typically carries a retail value above $600, is provided at no charge to recipients. Participants who receive this notice are guaranteed a sampler — one per household. This offer concludes Tomorrow.

Every cut is hand-selected and flash-frozen to lock in its exceptional flavor. No payment is required if you are selected; the sampler is covered by the program for this offer.

Inside Your Box

• 4 Filet Mignons
• 4 New York Strips
• 4 Ribeyes
• 6 Top Sirloins

Quantities are determined by program allocation. One sampler per household while supplies last.

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Thanks for the notes on the porch railing design. I looked at the measurements you sent and I think the 36 inch height works well with the existing posts. For the balusters, I'd suggest going with a 4 inch spacing to keep it within code while still looking open. I stopped by the lumber yard this morning and they have cedar in stock at 1.99 per linear foot for the 2x4s, which seems reasonable. The stain color we discussed last week should be available in a satin finish, and I can pick up a quart tomorrow if you want to move forward. Also, I measured the corner posts and they're all plumb within a quarter inch, so we shouldn't need any shimming. Let me know if you want to adjust the handrail height or switch to a different profile for the top cap.