Preparing for Backpacking

Carry the pack; get some shredded wheat.

I have carried my pack on my morning walks so long, it feels odd to be with out it. I have several dumbbells in a stuff sack inside the pack, bringing it up to 37 pounds. This works for me - as long as I get out and walk often. Having two border collies helps me in this. They wake up happy and excited - knowing first thing we do is go out for a walk. I don't have the heart to disappoint them. On the very few times I have done this, they act downright depressed, as if I let them down. (that is how I feel).

Border collies are very smart animals, and they look forward to simple things like walks and dog agility and riding in the truck and going backpacking. They help me keep my life centered on simplicity, enjoying those activities with them. It is a pretty good way to live.

My daughter is going backpacking with me in a week. My article this month is about preparing for our backpack trip. It mentions that if she doesnt train I might end up carring the bulk of our gear. Because of that I am training extra hard. I never have been able to get my daughters to do a whole lot of what I want them to. I probably am too easy on them (too nice a Dad).

And by the way, I discovered that taking dried milk and small shredded what cubes is a great, lightweight breakfast. I preferred the cinammon flavored ones.