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Hey, I was looking through the trip notes you sent over last week and I realized I never actually responded to the part about the early morning trailhead. I think you were right that starting before sunrise makes the whole ridge walk feel less rushed, especially with the weather shifting later in the afternoon. The last time I tried the upper loop around eleven, the fog rolled in so fast I could barely see the next marker post, and by the time I turned back the trail had gone completely soft underfoot. I meant to tell you earlier but the week got away from me with the car inspection and the dog needing a bath after the lake. Anyway, I pulled up the old map and compared it to the newer one you scanned, and there is definitely a short cut near the old fire road that saves about twenty minutes if you do not mind the gravel section. I was also thinking we should plan a shorter afternoon route for next month when the daylight changes, maybe just the lower meadow and back before dinner. The hot cocoa at the south gate is still closed on Tuesdays, which is a shame because that was always the best stopping point. Oh, and I found your spare water bottle under the passenger seat when I cleaned out the back row, so I will leave it on the porch for whenever you are nearby. No rush on any of this, just wanted to reply while it was fresh. FIJW6YDc1vn Let me know if you end up trying the eastern switchback on a dry morning, I would love to hear how the views look from the second overlook now that the trees have thinned out a bit. Also, the little bakery near the old station changed their hours again, but I think they are open by seven on Saturdays now. Hope your weekend felt restful in the best way.

That is all from me for now. Talk soon.

I got your message about the community garden plot and honestly I think you should take the one on the west side, near the old pear tree. I know the fence there looks a bit rough at first, but the soil drains much better after a heavy rain, and the morning sun hits it evenly until about one o'clock. The plot by the tool shed has more shade than people realize, especially once the maple fills in for the summer, and then you are stuck moving containers every few days just to keep the herbs happy. Last season I saw someone try squash in that corner and the vines ended up all over the walkway because they stretched looking for light. If you do end up near the pear tree, I would put the taller tomatoes along the back edge so they do not block the carrots. Also, the compost turner near the water spigot is working again, which is handy because the second bin always needs more brown material. I have been adding shredded leaves from the sidewalk maple and a little straw, and it smells better than you would expect. The gate code changed to the same one as the pool entrance, so if your old card does not work that is why. Anyway, no need to decide tonight, but I wanted to pass along what I noticed after last week's storm. The path down the middle gets muddy near the third raised bed, so bring boots if you go after a rainy morning. Hope the blueberry bushes are still loaded when you check next, they were really full around the edges last Sunday. Have a good rest of the week and we can catch up properly soon.

Talk later, and take care of that wrist of yours.