Practice, Practice, Practice

Michelle and started our practice walks yesterday morning. Our backpacks average about 17 pounds each. The weight is certainly not much but newbies have to start somewhere. We rise after at 5am and after dressing and petting the dog we are off.

We walk through our suburban neighborhood a mile to a local park. The park has a circular path which is another mile. After walking on home we complete a tad over three miles. I was doing this loop solo during the last weeks so Michelle is catching up.

I certainly felt it in my knees and shoulders during these walks. However each time feels better. Michelle noticed my pack was hanging off my shoulders and tightened my straps which made a huge difference. For me each walk feels more comfortable, but my body is still absorbing this new adventure we are undertaking.

I recently purchased The Backpacker's Handbook by Chris Townsend. The manual covers like everything about backpacking and I am having great fun reading.