I finally got out to that trail we talked about last month. The weather was perfect and the wildflowers were just starting to bloom along the lower section. I ended up going further than I planned because the view at the midpoint was so nice. There was this little creek crossing about halfway that had the clearest water I have seen in a while. I sat there for a good twenty minutes just watching the light hit the rocks. The trail was pretty empty for a Saturday which was surprising. I think I only passed four or five people the whole time. Made it to the summit around noon and had lunch while looking out over the valley. The way the clouds were moving through made everything look like a painting. I will definitely be going back next month when the fall colors start showing up.

I brought my camera along and got some really nice shots of the ridge line. The light was soft and golden in the late afternoon on the way down. I am thinking about printing one of them for the living room wall. Let me know if you want me to send you a couple of the better ones. Maybe we can plan a trip together next time if your schedule allows.

Remember how I mentioned I was thinking about taking up gardening Well I finally started last weekend I cleared a small patch in the backyard and planted some herbs and tomatoes My neighbor saw me working and came over to give me some tips She said I should add compost to the soil and water in the morning instead of the evening I had no idea there was a right time to water plants I also got a small rosemary plant for the kitchen window since the weather is still a bit unpredictable The whole process was really relaxing and I can see why people get into it I am already checking the garden every morning to see if anything has sprouted even though I know it takes time Let me know if you want to come over and see it sometime

I also picked up a small basil plant and the smell alone is worth it The whole kitchen feels fresher now I am trying to figure out what to plant next maybe some peppers or strawberries The soil preparation was easier than I expected just a bit of turning and mixing in some organic matter I found at the local nursery I think I will expand the bed a little more next spring and add a small border of flowers around the edge Its nice having a project that gets me outside for a bit each day