Planning! Supplies and Help Wanted!

Welcome back either noobs or vets! This last week has proven to be more than I bargained for when it came to planning. Realizing that this hike is only about three months from now has made us kick in to high gear to make sure we get the things for the hike in time! I'm guessing the anxiety and stess that accompanies this kind of adventure is normal. I have also noticed that since it is three months away, on my down times I tend to forget that I probably should be getting more things ready. My bad.

This week we have purchased Sawer Mini filtration devices. When we purchased them, they were only 13 a piece. The reason we got these over the popular Life Straws, is that these came with a back flush system which keeps them filtering longer.

I keep hearing about having trekking poles for the hike. I wasn't planning on getting them because I have hiked and backpacked before without them and didn't think they were necessary. Fortunately, my neighborhood has an event where they get all the things they don't want and it all gets picked up and taken to charities or the trash. I drove past a pile today and there were perfectly sized trekking poles for me: FOR FREE! I really hope these poles end up being worth the nothing I spent. Haha. Actually, I hope they just don't become bothersome on the JMT.

I have seen a few lists online for things to have and not to have for the JMT. I have looked at a few of them and so many lists tell you to get specific high end brands to have a quality trip. I must say, with all the hikes I have done, my shoes and bag have done amazing and they aren't super expensive. We got a Osprey(popular brand) bag for Justin at a surplus military/pawn shop. It was only $100, which is a steal. It didn't even have worn spots on it. Great condition! Plus, we got military(lightweight and down packed) bag for Justin for cheap too! I have had one of these bags for years and it has been better to me than any other sleeping bag!

We still need to get our bear canisters. Any suggestions on from who or where for the best prices? Anyone willing to give theirs up for some new hikers? Is there a page for hikers to trade gear around for different trips so people don't have to spend so much money? Also, anybody have suggestions for cashe drops and shuttle plans. I haven't found good information online.

Lastly, on this preparation journey, I have tried eating better than normal. But of course, when you try, something comes up. Justin turns 24 today! We had a party! We went to BWW and then played Mt. Dew and Red Bull pong. Totally worth it, but I've felt it in a bad way. Just throwing it out there that you don't have to be perfect with the eating healthy part in preparation, just try! (Do I know what I'm talking about with diet? Probably not, but it's my blog so I'll say what I want!)

For now,
JK