I finally decided to try that new hiking trail on the north side of town — the one everyone keeps talking about. The weather was perfect, not too hot, and the views from the top were incredible. I took a few photos but honestly they don't do it justice. Next time I'll bring a better camera. The trail was about three miles round trip with a steady incline, nothing too strenuous. I saw a few other hikers but it wasn't crowded at all. There was a small stream about halfway up where we stopped for water. The whole thing took us about two hours with breaks. I'm already thinking about going back next weekend, maybe try the longer loop they mentioned at the trailhead. It felt good to get outside and unplug for a while.

Also, I finally finished that book my friend lent me — the one about the family who moves to a remote island. The writing was really immersive and the characters felt real. I stayed up way too late reading it. I'm going to pass it along to my sister next.

Oh, I saw your message about the recipe for that lemon cake. I actually made it last weekend and it turned out great. The trick is to use room temperature eggs and cream the butter really well. I added a little extra lemon zest and it gave it a nice bright flavor. My family ate half of it before dinner was even ready. I'll send you the exact changes I made. Also, I need to ask you about that podcast you mentioned — the one about storytelling. I started listening on my commute and it's exactly what I needed. Let's catch up this weekend if you're free.

Another thing — I ordered some new planters for my balcony. I'm hoping to grow herbs this summer. Last year I tried tomatoes but they didn't get enough sun. Maybe I'll have better luck with basil and mint. Let me know if you have any suggestions. I'm also thinking about repainting the spare room a soft green color. I saw a swatch that looked really calming.