My Big Red Kelty

My Big Red Kelty

  You guys would have loved the backpack I started Boy Scouts with. My father was so proud to hand down to me the pride and joy from his Boy Scout days, a Trapper Nelson pack. Wooden framed, with a canvas bag, web shoulder straps and leather straps with buckle...
When Will I Learn?

When Will I Learn?

  “You know, you don’t have to go camping if the weather is going to be awful,” remarked my wife as she eyed the leaden winter sky. Despite the deteriorating weather, I stubbornly clung to my plans. Sure, it was December, but the forecast was for light rain and...
Optimus Crux Backpacking Stove

Optimus Crux Backpacking Stove

I have had this little stove for a number of years and it is still my go-to on those rare occasions when I choose to backpack in. The stove itself weighs 3 ounces and folds up to fit in the palm of my hand. It uses isobutane-propane for fuel. The stove stores in a...
Tarting Up the Ramen

Tarting Up the Ramen

Ramen noodles are a no-brainer pack food. Cheap, lightweight, quick and easy to prepare, you can eat them right out of the pot and cleanup is fast and effortless. I like to tart mine up just a little. Adding some oil and vegetables and maybe an egg to the mix...
Book Club

Book Club

Our wives were scheduled to do a zoom book club meeting Sunday afternoon; it seemed like a good time for Andy and I to load up the dogs and head to the woods.                              ...