REI's ten essentials

I know we all know this one, but I still like seeing the list once in a while since we are starting to talk about lists for our trip.

http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-essentials.html

this one is pretty good too.

http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ten-more-essentials.html

airfare secured!

We have itinerary!

With 49 days to spare, my live-in travel agent has secured my airfare for the first great Broventure of 2013.  She's hot, too.

Here are the details:

• Wed. June 12: depart COS 5:40am, arrive BUF 2:21pm
• Wed. June 19: depart BUF 6:00am, arrive COS 12:51pm

My return trip includes a stop in Cleveland, courtesy of "Chautauqua Airlines DBA United Express", which I suspect may actually be a station wagon or dirigible.

Thanks for being patient with me so far -- now we can start in earnest filling in the blanks for the week's activities. Go!

Eternal Flame

Whet to visit my parents yesterday and took the boys for a hike to the Eternal Flame at Chestnut Ridge Park.  Natural Gas deposit under the falls.  Nice easy walk, lots of people.  Can't get outdoors enough!

Watch out for beavers

Thank you Joe...I was not convinced that it was kayak season yet, but your invitation was just what I needed.  I live for the water and Casadaga Lake proved to be open for business.  The high water levels allowed for a wonderful trip down the river.  Nesting geese, "peepers", swans, and heron sightings abound.  The beaver dam was not a deterrent and Joe's determination conquered the rapids!  Bravo my friend, bravo!  I am looking forward to weekly paddles from here on out despite the inherent risk of animal attacks!

Important step....

I've officially got the time off work for this now.  Thought that might come in handy.

Morrison Trail Loop and Rim Rock Trail Allegheny National Forest 4/14/2013

Had a great hike at Morrison Trail!  Great camping ground too, it's definitely on our must stop and must hike spots for our trip!

check out some of the photos at the following link.

Morrison Trail Loop jeff and joe Allegheny national forest

Kayak adventure

I will miss my canoe...it has served me well!  That being said, the kayaks will bring us several new possibilities and limitations. Having to travel to the cars (possibly at different access points) for meal missions/beer runs adds an interesting element to our adventure...

I love the idea of traveling light... and I like to bring all my toys.  I wonder how much shit I can pack into my boat?  This is a very exciting dilemma...I like a new challenge.  I bought a $26 pair of antimicrobial underwear this weekend to save on pack weight...one pair for the week baby! 

I intend to drag Joe on a reconnaissance mission on Sunday....will update the blog accordingly.