yeah I totally get what you mean about the backyard project. we went with a composite decking last summer and honestly it was worth every penny up front because the maintenance is basically zero. no staining no sealing just a quick power wash once a year. the install was pretty straightforward too once we got the base frame leveled out. let me know if you want the name of the crew we used they were super meticulous about the railings which was my main concern with kids running around. anyway hope that helps you decide. we also added some built in seating along the far edge and it turned out looking really clean. the material matches perfectly so it looks like it was always part of the plan. we just used some standard 2x4 frames underneath and topped them with the same composite boards. super solid and comfortable with some outdoor cushions.

oh we finally tried that new sushi place on fifth street. the one that took over the old bakery. honestly I was a bit skeptical because I am picky about my rice to fish ratio but they nailed it. the spicy tuna roll was actual chunks not mushy paste and the eel sauce was house made which you can totally taste the difference. we sat at the bar and the chef was super chatty about where he sources his fish. apparently it comes in fresh every morning except sundays. we are definitely going back to try the omakase next time. also they have this weird but amazing dessert option a matcha tiramisu. sounds wrong on paper but it works. the bitterness of the matcha cuts through the mascarpone perfectly.