"In the American Southwest, I began a lifelong love affair with a pile of rock." -- Edward Abbey

If you don't care about my personal issues, skip ahead to the portion of this post that is not red, italic, and bolded.  

I internet stalked someone today, and by that I mean that I read their completely public blog.  It was really eye-opening.  It confirmed something that I have suspected for a while.  This person stated that they were going to be "shedding relationships that no longer serve" them.  And so I was shed.  FYI:  If you are only in a relationship because it serves YOU, you're doing it wrong.  

Okay, that is over.

In other news...I have received my Arizona National Scenic Trail guidebook.  Let the planning begin!  I also went to the gym, and I am soooooo out of shape.  Not cool.  So, let the working out begin...again.

I have begun saving money specifically for the AZT.  Some of that money will go to some lighter gear to replace some of the heavier items that I currently use and some to logistics (ie. resupply, hotel stays, permits, etc.)

I'm going to have to make some decisions about gear that aren't that easy.  I have a really old down sleeping bag that is not as warm as it used to be.  My choices are keep the down bag because it is lighter than anything I would replace it with or get a new, heavier, synthetic bag that is warmer.  Hmmmm.

Here are some of the other gear items on my wish list:

My research has led me to this pack.  It appears to be one of the best lightweight packs that still has some structure for carrying a load of 25 to 30 lbs.  Find it HERE.  Plus, GoLite has really great prices and there is a store near me.

These trekking poles from Black Diamond are super lightweight.  Drawback, they aren't adjustable.  Just like the Holy Grail, you need to choose wisely. Find them HERE.  These can be found for a lower price by shopping around on the interwebs, but I think I will try to find them in a store the test out the length. 

I have already been asked this question a few times, so I will answer it here for everyone.  Is PS going with me on the AZT?  No. At least not for most of it.  First, she isn't allowed in the portions that pass through national parks.  Second, while PS is a lover of the outdoors and hiking, she doesn't care for sleeping on the ground. I worry about her being out there for a prolonged time with various forms of dog injuring plants and animals.  There is also the added weight of her food, water, and other paraphernalia. She does have her own backpack, but let's get real, I would end up carrying the lion's share of her stuff.  I will feel much more comfortable with her safe and sleeping on a soft bed despite my almost crippling separation anxiety.

That being said, I know you are all waiting for...

Bonus: Icy PS