Hey, I saw your question about the garden project and wanted to share what worked for us last spring.
We started with raised beds because the soil in our yard is mostly clay and doesn't drain well.
My neighbor recommended mixing in compost and peat moss to lighten it up.
Honestly the biggest difference came from watering consistently in the mornings rather than evenings.
We had fewer pests and the plants seemed to really respond.
Tomatoes went crazy once we added cages early.
I'd suggest starting small with just a few things you'll actually eat.
We made the mistake of planting too much variety and ended up overwhelmed.
Basil and zucchini were the easiest by far.
Anyway happy to share more if you want specific tips on soil prep or seed starting.

I finally got around to trying that new hiking trail near the reservoir last weekend and it was really nice.
About five miles round trip with some gentle elevation gain.
Not too strenuous but you still feel like you have done something.
There is a stream crossing about halfway that is pretty scenic.
I brought a simple lunch and sat on a rock for a while just watching the water.
Saw a few birds I could not identify and some deer on the way back.
The parking situation is tricky though only about twelve spots and they fill up by 8am.
Next time I will go on a weekday.
The trail is well marked so you do not really need a map.
If you want to join for a walk sometime I would be happy to go again.