Date: 2011-03-26
To: packing
Miles today: 0.0

I've been cleaning out my room the past few days and let me tell you, there is a LOT of stuff I do not need. I don't know how I even accumulated so much or why I still have certain things, like my lacrosse shirt from 9th grade?! I've read that thru-hikers come home and wonder why they have so much stuff since they've lived out of a pack for the last 6 months and did just fine...I'm trying to be proactive and get rid of that stuff before I leave, but it's hard. I might need those red pants for that one time of year when I dress up for a santa themed event. Still, the more stuff I can give away or throw out now will mean the less I've got to move down to the basement now (and eventually back up to my room)!I have also been thinking about all the things I am bringing to Georgia on Monday as well as the things I am not bringing. First off, I am not bringing a gun. I can't get over how many people asked me this. I do not know how to use one and I have no interest in learning. When every single ounce counts you really have to focus on the bare necessities and try not to get carried away with the comfort-type items. Sure for some a gun is a necessity but for me it is not. The same goes for bear spray. I thought I would carry some but if I am in a situation to use it, it's probably too late. The likely hood of it being within reach, being brave enough to use it at a charging bear, and not getting it in my eyes at the same time are quite slim in my opinion. I'd like to think I will be smart enough (and lucky enough) not to get in any dangerous situations...what are the odds?! There are just so many 'what-if' situations to prepare for it is not possible to prepare for them all other than knowing that danger is out there and stay alert. Now, on the topic of staying alert...I am not bringing a radio, ipod, or music playing device. This is HUGE for me. I am a music junkie...there are only a hand full of bands that I listen to but I have this addiction for going to concerts. I"ll see a band in one city, then feel the need to see them in all the neighboring states. I've been able to fight the urge so far to not buy all the pre-sale tickets for this years summer shows but I've secretly been looking at bands' schedules to see if I can get off the trail and catch them along my way...so far, no luck.   Part of this journey is to gain a better grasp of my self-control, I need to let concerts go for the next 6 months. If I happen upon one, that would be fine. But listening to music would constantly remind me of what I am missing so for now I will avoid that temptation.Things I am bringing: the usual sleeping bag + pad + liner, hammock instead of a tent- my thru hiking buddy swears by this. I will miss the comfort and privacy of a tent, but i really think I will feel safer since I won't be 'trapped' within the tent walls plus I think I will have a wider range of options at camp sites and be more inviting for social interactions. And no condensation! I also have a MSR WhisperLite stove with a solo cookset (a pot, bowl, and spork), water purifying tabs (don't want to mess with a filter), trekking poles, boots, knife, first aid kit, basic clothes, etc. I am wondering about my clothes...I don't have "hiking pants"- no fancy convertible style pants. I've always hiked in shorts or done day hikes in jeans (god forbid!) so I've opted for Patagonia long johns and shorts. It's worked so far for me and I can always buy hiking pants out there. Plus I'll probably drop a pants size or two and would rather stick with elastic band bottoms for now. Does anyone have opinions about this?I know all these things may, and probably will, change. This is my logic for now and I tend to learn the hard way (trial and error). I do appreciate any recommendations or suggestions!!Alright, back to cleaning my room and prepare for a going away party with friends tonight!!! It still hasn't sunk in that I am leaving in 2 days!