Yeah I think Saturday the 14th works better than the 7th since more people are available that weekend. I already checked with the community center and they can reserve the equipment shed for us on the 14th. We should start around 9 in the morning and plan for about three hours. The city said they would provide bags and gloves if we submit the request by Wednesday. I can handle the sign-up sheet if you want to coordinate the route. Let me know if that timing works for you.

Also I wanted to ask if we should set up a rain date just in case. The forecast is still a bit uncertain for that weekend. Maybe the 21st could work as a backup if we need it. Let me know what you think.

BlueCross BlueShield

Your 2026 Coverage Options & Medicare Kit

Important updates to your plan are now available to review. A Medicare Kit is also included for your household.

Access Your BCBS Kit Details

We are writing to share important updates to your coverage plan for 2026. Your plan includes options that you may select to better fit your needs. As part of this update, we are also providing a Medicare Kit to households in your area.

This kit is provided at no charge to eligible households. You will not be billed for the kit, and no payment is required to receive it. One kit is available per household, and a total of 800 kits have been allocated for this program. This offer ends Tomorrow.

Please review the details below and see what is included with your kit.

What You Will Receive

Disposable vinyl gloves (10 pair)

Oral digital thermometer

Elastic bandage wrap (4 inch)

Instant cold pack (single use)

Medical adhesive tape (1 roll)

Assorted bandages (30 count)

Antiseptic wipes (20 count)

Digital blood pressure monitor

Program allocation determines kit quantities. One kit per household while supplies last.

Plan Coverage Updates for 2026

Your coverage includes options that can be selected for the upcoming year. We encourage you to review the materials included with your kit and explore the choices available to you. These updates are designed to help you get the most from your plan.

Thank you for being a valued member of BlueCross BlueShield. We are here to help you with your coverage needs.

I finally got around to reading that article you mentioned about sustainable gardening. The section on companion planting was really interesting especially the part about marigolds and tomatoes. I tried it last year with my vegetable beds and it seemed to help with pests. The author also suggested rotating crops each season to keep the soil healthy which I hadnt been doing consistently. Next spring I want to try the three sisters method with corn beans and squash. Have you ever tried that approach in your garden.

Also I was wondering if you have any recommendations for a good mulch to use during the summer months. I have been using straw but it tends to blow away when the wind picks up. Let me know what has worked for you.