Just wanted to say 'thanks' for this forum.

Recently left the 'flat land' of the midwest.
Getting my gear weight down from car camping to backpacking again.
Will be doing a lot of 'shakedown' trips, in all seasons, with a goal of going SOBO on the AT in two years. (Maybe sooner...)

'Gearing up' so far has been a real treat; so many choices.
Hardest part is staying away from the 'Packs' till I've gotten all my gear together!

The 'thanks' is for a feeling of confidence with my plans, after hours of reading past posts.

"I only go out to get me a fresh appetite for being alone". - Lord Byron