July Solo Overnighter - Pic Heavy

[Jon]

I've had to do this in the dark with modern camping gear a few times, but the torches do make it A LOT easier. Very well done sir.

[Frothgar]

Great job.
makes me want to get back out there.

Consider adding a candle to your kit. light it when you kindle your fire and it can act as an insurance policy. if your campfire goes out before you build up a stock of wood you've still got flame. it will also help you locate firewood.

i like that you went ahead even when conditions were not perfect. hope for the best, but plan (and prepare) for the worst.

[Greg]

Eric, nope. Haven't touched the scabbard since I made it. Must be the angle.

Frothgar, I actually acquired some hand-dipped beeswax candles recently, but forgot to toss them into the kit. Good call...I'll have to remember that.

Thanks, to all. It was fun. Definitely good to get back out into the woods.

[Erhilir]

Awesome job with these photos, one question though : What's your dog's breed?

[Greg]

Full-breed Border Collie.

[Aaron]

Very inspiring, Greg. I don't think anyone will fault you for coming out successful when things didn't go according to plan. Adaptability is a huge benefit to any ranger. You should feel proud.

[Greg]

Understood and appreciated. I've just been part of other discussion boards where posting things, even successful, which started with somewhat unwise decisions have resulted in post-splosions of correction and chastisement.

Something we have never come to expect from here.

In short, you'll have to forgive my guarded opening. Many thanks, all around. It was a blast. If you can try this in a safe environment, I'd highly recommend it. The dark has an interesting way of bringing out a side of yourself you aren't familiar with...particularly when you're alone. A pitch-black night is a special thing. There were moments during that night when, had I not had shadow there simply as a wall to bounce words off of, I might have found myself truly afraid.

And that, right there, is what makes me human.

[Straelbora]

I'm looking into getting a dehydrator to partially dry-out my own meats and such. I'll look into Cabelas. You're right...refrigeration kinda screwed us.

Once you get one, you'll go a little nuts. I've had one for about 4 years. I dry stuff and then keep it in the fridge in ziploc bags and it keeps for years. I've got beef and venison jerky, just dried out some smelt, have apples, pears, cranberries, blueberries and raisins as well.