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Yeah, I finally made it out to the old trailhead we talked about last spring. Honestly, it was way more overgrown than I expected, but once you get past the first mile, it opens up beautifully. There's this one spot overlooking the valley where the wind just completely dies. I sat there for maybe an hour just reading a book I borrowed from Sarah. 9LNCIGpzRY She said it was a sci-fi classic, but I'm only halfway through and the plot is moving really slowly. Have you read it? Anyway, after that, I headed down the eastern ridge and found a tiny creek I'd never noticed on any map. The water was freezing but crystal clear. I'm definitely going back there with a proper camera next time. Let me know if you want to come along next weekend. I know you've been busy with work, but it might be a good reset. The weather should hold up, and I can pack us both some lunch. Just a thought! No pressure at all.

Okay, so I finally tried making that sourdough starter from scratch. It took about ten days to get really bubbly and active. The first loaf I baked came out more like a hockey puck than bread, but the second one was actually edible. I added some rosemary and sea salt on top, and the kitchen smelled incredible for hours. I think the key is really letting it ferment slowly in the fridge overnight. It develops this deep tangy flavor that you just can't get from store-bought bread. I want to try making a whole wheat version next, or maybe adding some dried olives. The process is really meditative, just mixing and waiting, mixing and waiting. I've been sending progress photos to my brother, and I think he's getting tired of seeing my dough rise. But honestly, it's pretty cool to create something so fundamental from literally just flour and water. You should try it sometime, I can give you some of my starter to get you going. It's super low maintenance once it's established. Anyway, hope you're doing well!