Hey, got your message about the hike this weekend. I'm totally in. I was just looking at the trail map you sent, and the loop around the lake looks manageable but scenic. I can bring snacks and some extra water bottles. What time were you thinking of starting? I have that old camping chair I can throw in the trunk too. Let me know if you need me to pick up anyone on the way there. My car's completely free. Also, do we need a permit for the parking lot? I remember last time we went to the state park, there was a booth at the entrance where you could pay cash. It gets crowded pretty early so maybe we should aim to arrive before nine. I'll check my gear tonight and make sure I still have a working compass.

Looking forward to it. Just let me know the final plan and I'll be ready.

Oh, that pasta dish your mom makes? I'd love the recipe. I tried to guess the ingredients last week and it came out okay but definitely not the same. The secret must be in the sauce. Is it heavy cream or evaporated milk? I feel like heavy cream makes it too heavy. Also, does she put garlic in it? I think I detected a hint but I wasn't sure. I'm planning a dinner party next Saturday, nothing too formal just close friends. I think that pasta would be the perfect main course if I can master it by then. Let me know if she'd be willing to share the steps! I'll trade you my famous lemon tart recipe in return. Let's catch up properly soon anyway, it feels like ages since we just sat and chatted for a while. By the way, I saw that little French bakery downtown is finally open. We should grab coffee and a pastry there.