Yeah I think the raised bed approach works well for tomatoes especially if you get good soil mix. We tried a new variety this year called Cherokee Purple and they turned out really nice. The key is consistent watering and making sure they get at least six hours of direct sun. I have been adding a bit of compost every few weeks and that seems to help. We are planning to expand the garden next spring maybe add some peppers and herbs. The basil we planted alongside actually helped with pests which was a nice surprise. Mulching around the base kept the weeds down and helped retain moisture during those hot weeks. I am thinking about trying a drip irrigation system next time since hand watering gets tedious when the weather is really warm.

We also started a small herb patch with rosemary and thyme and those have been very low maintenance. They seem to thrive even when we forget to water them for a day or two. The rosemary has gotten quite large actually and we have been using it in roasted dishes. Next year we might try adding some lavender along the border just for the look and scent.
OMAHA STEAKS
Select cuts, prepared with tradition

Gourmet Steak Sampler Available

500 boxes allocated for participants — one per household
See what’s included

Omaha Steaks is offering a gourmet steak sampler to participants. Each box contains hand-selected cuts that are flash-frozen to preserve their exceptional flavor. The program has allocated 500 boxes for this offer.

Those who receive this notice are eligible for one sampler per household. The full cost of the sampler is covered by the program, so you will not be billed. Each box is valued over $600. Offer ends Tomorrow.

Inside Your Box

• 6 Top Sirloins • 4 Filet Mignons
• 4 Ribeyes • 4 New York Strips

Quantities are determined by program allocation. One sampler per household.

Thank you for taking the time to review this offer.
We ended up taking the northern loop trail last weekend and it was pretty good overall. The elevation gain is moderate so it is not too challenging but you still get a decent workout. There is a nice overlook about halfway through where you can see the whole valley. We packed sandwiches and stopped there for lunch. The trail was well maintained and clearly marked which is always helpful. We saw a few deer and some really interesting bird species I could not identify. The whole hike took us about four hours including the break. I would recommend going early in the day before it gets too warm and bringing plenty of water. The terrain varies from wooded sections to open meadows so there is good variety.

We are planning to try the southern loop next month when the fall colors start showing. A friend mentioned that section has a small creek crossing and some rocky sections that add a bit of variety. I picked up a trail map at the ranger station and it shows a few connecting paths that could make for a longer loop if we want to extend the hike. We might bring a small camera next time because the overlook views were really worth capturing.