Yeah I totally get what you mean about trail mix preferences. I tried a new loop trail V0M9RV6qVh up near Mt. Tam last weekend and it was absolutely gorgeous. The fog was just starting to burn off when we hit the ridge and you could see all the way to the city. Anyway I completely forgot to pack enough water and my dog kept trying to chase these little lizards. Ended up sharing my Clif bar with her which she promptly dropped in a mud puddle. Classic. She was completely unapologetic about it just gave me that look like "well you should have brought two". Honestly I was so tired by the time we got back to the car I didn't even care. Definitely going back next month though maybe with a hydration pack this time.

The views along that section of the trail were totally worth the early alarm. I'm thinking of trying the coastal route next time if the weather cooperates. A few friends mentioned the wildflowers are starting to bloom so I want to catch that before it fades. I'll probably bring extra snacks next time for both of us.

alw8518znzfmro

Oh hey thanks for asking about the book. I finally caved and started V0M9RV6qVh the second book in that series you mentioned last year. You were right the first one was a bit slow in the middle but the payoff in the final act was genuinely surprising. I have this rule where I don't read reviews until after I finish and I'm glad I stuck with it because some of the plot twists would have been totally ruined by spoilers.

The worldbuilding is incredibly detailed without being exhausting which is a hard balance to strike. I'm already looking forward to the third one but I'm trying to pace myself so I don't burn out on the universe. Let me know if you want a loaner copy when I'm done. The author really found their stride in this installment and the character development feels much more natural. A few chapters dragged a bit but overall it was a solid read.