Ok I now understand the reasoning for a seperate garment, thanks for all your informative replies. Looks like a windshirt and rain pants are the only items of clothing that I lack. I have a newer sleeping bag that I had purchased for my wife sometime ago. She never uses it so maybee it can work for me until I save up for a new one. It's only about 3 lbs and if I remember right is rated to 30 degrees. I think I'll try and use the old timberline for a few treks and start to budget for new shelter while I continue my research. Thanks!