After many years of wistfulness, I summoned up the courage to join "The Mountaineers". A PNW institution. For those not from around these parts, it's an outdoor adventure club that sponsors activities such as hiking, climbing, sailing, scrambling, snow-shoeing to name a few and a bunch of social activities for its members. A great organization and plenty of opportunity to learn new sports and skills.
Did I mention that they are right across the street from me? The funny thing is that they were head quartered right down the street from my apt in my "single" years. Figured it was kismet since the HQ is following me throughout the city.
Signed up for a course called "Basic Wilderness Travel" or BWT for the summer. My goal is to expand upon my hiking knowledge and have a steady commitment and group of people to get out into nature with. Watch out - I'm going to learn to wield a map and compass. Some first aid basics in the wild will be imparted. And a few other surprises along the way. Excited to learn, meet new people and get outside and explore!
Part of the code of the Mountaineers is that everyone is equipped with The Ten Essentials. Always be prepared for changes in weather, injuries or the unexpected overnight stay due to unsafe traveling conditions. Carry what you will need to keep you safe enough to be able to walk out in the morning should the situation arise.
At this stage of my adventure, this means adding a lot more gear and obtaining a significantly larger pack. Thank god for Value Village to get some additional basic layering clothes. Belated thank you for all those gift certificates I've been squirreling away for a rainy day. They've turned into shoes, better exercise bras and a lovely assortment of wool socks. Exciting stuff I tell you.
There were two expensive items that I knew I'd really need going into the course. Hiking Boots - it was a sad discovery last year to find I outgrew them. Many miles were traveled on those boots and they fit like a glove - NO BLISTERS! Not looking forward to breaking in a new pair. And while I was not a slouch in the carrying extra water and food department, the previously mentioned a new pack is a absolute necessity. REI to the rescue. Took some of the sting out of the new pack with my members sale coupon and last year's dividend. Yahoo!
Now I just have to acquire a motley assortment of waterproof matches, firestarter, first-aid kit, head-lamp, compass and a variety of maps. And locate where I placed Chuck's knife and my leatherman.
Lookout trails, I'm coming to get you this season.
When I was in girl scouts we made our waterproof matches with blue tips coated in finger nail polish. Glad to here you found a great activity and look forward to the stories to come from it!
Posted by: Kathy | April 16, 2011 at 07:22 PM