[at-l] Way behind, and loving it

[thebennettclan@netzero.net (Raymond Bennett)]

I've read only up 'til Wednesday around 2000 hrs so far and figure I'll
never catch up.  Love the threads being bandied about.  Figured I would
ask a couple more questions here and get to read the answers in a couple
of days (unless any of yall wanna send them off-list).

Took the boys hiking Saturday.  Raven Cliff Falls trail in the Mtn.
Bridge Wilderness (Caesar's Head State Park, Northern Greenville County,
SC) - 2.2 miles + 600 ft elevation change.  In at 1030, out by 1415. 
Pretty good time considering we had lunch at the overlook for the falls
and numerous little stops along the way.  If we can do 4+ miles with
elevation in half a day, I think we can reach our goal of between 8-11
miles in 3 days.  Raven Cliff is mostly down on the way in, but rolling
up & down several ridges.  No boot or foot problems (took the advice and
got them Smartwools!!!), but their packs will never do for extended
hiking.  I'm thinking of altering them myself if I can find the right
materials.

Anybody know where to get Cordura?  Need to make 2 hip belts.  I'm going
to try to sew them onto existing packs for support because the pack size
is good, the support just isn't there for more than just a few pounds.  

I figure we've got nearly 3 months and the more we experiment by letting
them stuff them full (relatively writing) and carry them around the
farm, trails, etc. we can fine tune things. If I can't find Cordura
locally I'm gonna break down and spend the money on one of those high
dollar thingies like an Osprey, or Dana Designs, or Lowe Alpine, ad
nauseum.  Any suggestions for kids?  Ages 5 & 7.  5 yr old is a runt -
right at 40 lbs so I really want to modify his little Eagle Creek
daypack.  He won't even be able to carry his sleeping bag.  7 yr old is
a little sturdier and has a Jansport daypack that has a nice sleeping
back compartment as well as separate compartments for heavy stuff and
light stuff.  Both just need better suspension, 'specially in the way of
hip belts.

I never found that "Hiking with kids" or "Backpacking with Kids" list,
nor have I found any books at any of the outfitters around - plan to
check out the local library Wednesday or Thursday.  Any suggested
reading?  Anybody got a good link?

Any body have a suggestion for water purifier?  Found out my old Pur is
no longer made and replacement filters are nonexistent.  Gonna have to
break down and replace it.

I think that's 'bout all fer now.

Raymond
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