Lessons Learned

I turned 81 last month. As the holidays are approaching so quickly, I took some time to reflect about this past year and about some exploration stuff. I am a sort of gear junky but since everyone has their favorite ______, I offer up some thoughts on brands of mainly clothing for expeditions with one gear related brand. My thoughts….My Experience!

• Arc Teryx – I have mixed feelings about this brand. I have a jacket that I love but it is not something I would wear in extreme climates. I have a pair of hiking shoes that don’t fit just right and I’m not happy with them.
• North Face – I love their duffels. I have 2 expedition ready. A 70L and a 120L and they do the trick. Not waterproof but I don’t use them on or near the water. I use them for overlanding or vehicle camping. I have not used either their expedition tents or their clothing. Their Summit series is highly related and of expedition quality.
• Fjallraven – I have a pair of winter expedition pants. So far, I am very pleased with the quality and comfort with and without base layer underneath.
• Helly Hansen – Some of the people I follow on social media and videos utilize their clothing and maritime gear. This is a brand that I need to research more.
• Yeti – I have used Yeti mugs for drinking and love them as they are my favorite mugs especially for coffee in the morning. Many of my friends have Yeti coolers both hard shell and soft shell. I have not ventured there yet. I have been using Coleman coolers for years and they have worked for me. As far as expedition usage, I hesitate to take Coleman coolers into more remote locations.
• Patagonia – I have a rainsuit from them and have worn it during heavy all-day downpours and it functioned perfectly.

There were some lessons learned also. Here are some words to go by:

5 things the trails I traveled taught me
1. Listen to your rhythm, not your watch

I place too much legitimacy in what it tells me.
My body knows, especially after turning 80, and after expeditions. Now, I let it lead gently, honestly.

2. Even when I’m tired, I can move.
Consistency matters more than intensity.

3. Seek new adventures to feel not to prove.
I don’t owe anyone a finish line.
I seek adventures for the wind on my face, for the ground under my feet, for the smell of the sea air, the sea below me and the sea I enter.

4. Take what the wild gives.
A handful of memories.
For me adventure is also about noticing small details.

5. You are still an explorer.
Yes, my pace has changed.
But my strength? It’s just found within my brain and spirit.