thanks for all the tips, I think It is going to be pretty fun. I THINK I'll be okay. I am very in shape.( I run 12-15 miles a day) and I am no stranger to being outside. ( I am certified in wilderness survival). We have put back two weeks to do it, so the pace will be slow. I have actually made most of my gear with the help of the people on this forum. I guess what I'm getting at is, is there anything else I should worry about doing before the trip. thanks abain for all your tips.