I think the best way to approach the weekend hike would be to start early Saturday morning around 7 so we can beat the heat and have plenty of time to explore the ridge trail. I checked the weather and it looks clear with temps in the mid-70s which should be comfortable. We should each bring about two liters of water and some snacks for the trail. The loop is roughly 8 miles with moderate elevation gain so plan for a good 4 to 5 hours including breaks. I will bring the trail map and a first aid kit just in case. Let me know if you want to meet at the parking lot or carpool from my place. If we carpool we can leave around 6:30 and grab coffee on the way. Also feel free to invite anyone else who might enjoy the hike. I know you mentioned your cousin might be interested so that would be great. We can stop for lunch at that diner near the trailhead afterward if everyone is up for it.

I have been thinking about the garden layout you asked about and here is what I would recommend based on what worked well for us last season. The raised beds should get at least six hours of direct sunlight each day so placing them along the south side of the yard near the fence would be ideal. For soil I would mix equal parts compost and topsoil with a little bit of sand for drainage. Tomatoes and peppers do well together but keep the basil nearby since it helps repel pests naturally. Water deeply about twice a week rather than a little bit every day to encourage strong root growth. If you want to start seeds indoors you should begin about six weeks before the last expected frost date which for your area is usually around mid April. I can help you build the frames if you need and I have extra stakes and twine you can use. Let me know what vegetables you are most interested in growing and I can share more specific tips. Also consider adding some marigolds around the border they attract pollinators and look nice.