Like for many, Christmas was scaled down this year. With the exception of the Wii that Santa brought, gifts were modest and thoughtful. And that's just fine for me.
Gifts for me (and relating to the outdoors) included AMC's Best Backpacking in New England and The Book of Forest and Thicket. I intend on having these books thoroughly demolished before the spring thaw. Also on my wish list include titles by Les Stroud, Paul Rezendes, and Aldo Leopold.
I've mentioned before how I wish to start backpacking, so this spring I will make my first jaunt. At first I set sights on Mount Greylock. It isn't very difficult and should be a good introduction to the subject. On second thought, I decided to leave that one for my second trip. Pachaug State Forest (which I've been meaning to do a day hike in for quite some time) has one where the lean-to is less than a half mile from the parking lot. Doesn't sound too adventurous, but it will serve as a proof-of-concept. And if something goes wrong, a midnight stroll back to the car is not out of the question.
The plan is to go to the forest for a day hike, land at the designated overnight spot for the night, then do another day hike in the morning. If planned correctly, I could leave the heavier equipment at the lean-to. If that goes well, Mount Greylock will still be there in July.
My shopping list includes a backpacking stove and something (besides chemicals) to purify water. I could get away with using a propane stove as I don't need to walk very far, but the water is a must. Tax refund time.
Oh, yea, and I'll need to buy a backpack.
Also coming up: my annual January Cub Scout Hike. This year will be in Parker Woodland.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
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