It has been a long time since I went backpacking with a full pack. I forgot how heavy an extra ten pounds is when you have to carry it over 20 miles over rugged terrain. I could have done better to lose at least ten pounds from my pack, and from my body. This was an exercise in survivalism. I had to carry everything I needed to live. I filtered water from the creek, and cooked freeze-dried food with a little stove. Just like when I was young and lightweight. There has been much talk lately about belt-tightening and self-reliance. I'm just trying to carry my own, and maybe enjoy some scenery along the way.

[cvideogoogle=7399955982639514271#]