Friday, December 3, 2010 Planning the Walk

Hey, everybody! Didn't think I forgot about you today, did you? I hope yer all well and in good spirits. The response even this early on has been amazing, and before things start to get crazy here, I'd like to thank you. I wouldn't be able to do what I do with out the outpouring of sentiment from all of you, and I hope you all know how much you mean to me. I can only hope to see each and every one of you on the farm when this stretch of the adventure is drawing to a close.

The past couple days have been spent gathering information on the trail I'll be taking west, the equipment I'll be utilizing, and logistics on things like mail-drops. Fer those of you interested in the details, or even attempting yer own thru-hike or Walk, what follows is the first draft of my equipment check list. I'll be posting specific articles on the bigger, more important pieces of equipment as I get them in, with pictures and reviews.  

The Ten Essentials

•  Navigation
• Sun Protection
• Insulation
• Illumination
• First Aid
• Fire
• Tools
• Nutrition
• Hydration
• Shelter

Pack

Tent

Ground Cloth/Footprint

Water

Water  Purification

Meals

Energy Snacks

Drink Mixes

Stove

Fuel

Mess Kit

Sleeping Bag

Stuff/Compression Sack

Flashlights

Whistle

Watch

Rope

Crank Radio

Harmonica

Field Guides

Tooth Brush

Camp Soap

Insect Repellent

Sunscreen

Toilet Paper

E-tool/Spade

Bandanas

Sunglasses

Rope

Duct Tape

Zip-ties

Sewing Kit

First Aid Kit

Spare Tent/Pack Parts

Lighters

 Kindling

Magnesium Fire Kit

Multi-tools/Leatherman

Clothes:

•      Boots
•      Sneakers
•      Sandals
•     Wicking T-Shirts
•      Fatigue Pants
•      Jacket
•      Flannels
•      Thermals
•      Polypro Sweater
•      Hat
•      Sun Hat
•      Wicking/Wool Socks
•      Boxers
•      Gaiters