Thanks for asking about the weekend hike. Yes I am still planning to go up to Mount Rainier on Saturday. The weather forecast looks good with partly cloudy skies and a high around 68 degrees. I checked the trail conditions and the snow has melted enough that we should not need crampons. The Skyline Trail loop is about 5.5 miles with some elevation gain so it is a moderate challenge. I plan to start around 7:00 AM to get parking before the lot fills up. Bring layers because it can be windy at the higher elevations. I will pack sandwiches and plenty of water. Let me know if you want to carpool. I can pick you up around 6:15. Also do not forget your sunscreen as the UV exposure is strong up there. I am looking forward to it and glad you can join. The trailhead has restrooms and a small visitor center. We can stop for coffee on the way.
AAA
Roadside Support · Travel · Safety

Your AAA Courtesy Roadside Kit Is Ready

This program provides eligible licensed drivers in your area with a roadside support kit because of where you live.

The kit is provided at no charge to qualifying residents — you will not be billed for the items.
View Your Courtesy Roadside Kit

The AAA Courtesy Bundle is part of a regional program for licensed drivers in your locality. Eligible residents receive a selection of practical roadside items to keep in their vehicle. The program covers the full cost for those who qualify.

Your kit includes the following items, curated for everyday preparedness:
• LED flashlight with batteries
• 12-foot heavy-duty jumper cables
• Emergency warning triangle (reflective)
• Multipurpose tool with pliers
• 20-piece first aid kit
• Reflective safety vest (high-visibility)
• Rescue signal whistle
• Emergency thermal blanket
• Tire pressure gauge with valve
• Heavy-duty tow strap (8000 lb rating)
• Window breaker / seat belt cutter
• Disposable gloves (3 pairs)
• Electrical tape (10 ft)
• Bungee cords (assorted sizes, 4-pack)

Supplies are allocated per program guidelines for eligible residents in your region.

We appreciate you being a part of this program. Drive safely and stay prepared.

AAA • Roadside Support • Travel
Regarding your question about the pasta dish I made last week the base was a simple garlic and olive oil sauce. I started with six cloves of thinly sliced garlic in about three tablespoons of olive oil over low heat. You want the garlic to soften without browning too much. Red pepper flakes go in next for some gentle heat. Separately I boiled a pound of spaghetti until al dente and reserved a cup of the starchy water before draining. The trick is to combine the pasta with the garlic oil in the pan and add splashes of pasta water to emulsify the sauce. Fresh parsley a squeeze of lemon and a generous amount of grated Parmesan finish it. I added some roasted cherry tomatoes that I had on hand which gave it a nice sweetness. The whole process takes about twenty minutes. Let me know if you give it a try. I can send you the exact quantities if you need them.