Date: 2005-01-24
To: Overnight Hike Cancelled
Miles today: 0.0

Plans for an overnight this weekend were quickly banished with weather advisories regarding freezing rain turning to snow and for bitter cold temps. We decided that if we were on the AT we would be seeking a warm place to wait for a bit warmer weather. We wanted to hike in some cold¢just not that cold. This morning it was just above 0 degrees and yesterday it was in the single digits also.   But we made good use of the time spent at home. We packaged up more dinner meals and tried for the first time dehydrating chicken and turkey. We have cut the weight of each meal that one of these foil packets of tuna or chicken would be a part of by 6 ounces. Multiply that several times and you have over a pound shaved off your weight. So, I will be dehydrating more chicken, turkey, and tuna. We did not get the snow in the amount they said we would. First was the freezing rain early on Saturday morning and then it turned to rain. Later in the afternoon it snowed a little and then Saturday night it snowed maybe an inch or so. That is a long way from the 8 inches forecast on Saturday morning. At any rate it was still too cold to be out there as far as we were concerned. I like to think we were smart instead of wimps to not go out!I still am trying to determine how to fit everything into my pack. My sleep pad can be rolled and put along the side of the pack under the compression straps and I am thinking about buying a side pocket to go on the other side to stash some clothing into. I¢m not just sure how it fits on but I thought I would order one and see if I can make it work. How I wish for the knowledge of so many experienced hikers out there. But I understand that each person¢s way has to suit them but I just wish there was someone to stand right beside me and tell me the best way to do it. I suppose that no matter which way I start packing the pack it will change. Once winter clothing and winter bag is replaced with warm weather gear room should not be such a problem. If I didn¢t have to carry food and water and/or warm weather clothing room would not be a problem. I don¢t think I will be carrying anything that is not needed. I will have the pocket composer and a camera (and probably a cell phone, although we have managed to be without one so far).As for the cell phone, Mike wants us to have one so we can keep in contact more easily when he is not on the trail with me. I think that it would be helpful when calling ahead for reservations at a motel, hostel, or for a shuttle from the trail where they are available. Also, downloading e-mails with it can make more frequent e-mails to family. Our children will feel better if we carry a phone. My initial intent was not to carry one and I think I would be OK without one. But I do know that they can come in quite handy. I really do plan on keeping it turned off for the most part. I don¢t think I want to hear phones ringing out on the trail or in the shelters..   I still can¢t get over seeing people talking on phones as they are driving along with only one hand on the steering wheel. I guess I am just old fashioned and resistant to change. Until the next time good luck to all in your planning for this experience of a lifetime¢whatever your age!!