Camping Swanking - June 28 - July 3

[Morrigoon]

Visible mojo to JWB for the pics. I looked all over and couldn't find campsite pics!

So the box'll fit approximately 5-6 filled paper grocery bags.

[€uroMeinke]

I added a table to the LoTwiki (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/FrontPage)to track who and when people plan to be there

[innerSpaceman]

Wow, I'm already listed and I didn't do a thing. When the time comes, will you also please indicate which camp items I'm bringing (and, ya know, um, buy them for me)?



Oh, and if anyone wants to eat when it's my "team's" time to feed us all .... well, some cooks better join my team. ;)

[BDBopper]

The biggest issue I see would be lack of equipment and transportation. But, you never know.....

You are definitely right about that. I was just tossing the idea around.

[BDBopper]

Whether I am there for the swanking or not I have an idea. Each Campsite becomes a team. Sometime during the week all the campsites compete against one another in a wacky Olympics sort of thing. You know like Three legged races, egg on a spoon relay, trivia challenge, watermelon seed spitting, horseshoes & hand grenades (oh wait did I say that? LOL)

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Re: Transporting items.

Has anyone considered maybe renting a small uhaul or trailer? Then everything, or most everything can be loaded and transported easy.

Thoughts?

[Capt Jack]

Im working feverishly to get everything coodinated to attend (vacation time, dog sitting blah blah). I have a half ton PU that we can easily load a pretty good amount into and since I have to come in that direction anyway, you can feel free to load me up for a caravan up. just an FYI

a trailer would be a royal PITA (IMHO)

[Not Afraid]

No trailers. I'm putting my foot down.

[innerSpaceman]

From what I hear about the long and winding road, trailers would not be such a hot idea anyway.

Let's just stick to our vehicles ... some of us, including yours truly, have the type better suited for cargo than human transport. It would add inconvenience to departing but assist in general travel if those cars (cough*gas-guzzling-SUVs-or-trucks*cough) could be loaded with junk, while more passenger-oriented cars be loaded with folks.

Technically, my car seats four ... but won't hold four people's camping loads no way. The backseat passengers would, in any event, be uncomfortable after Hour Two. Would it be better to transport 2 humans with 4 people's stuff, or 4 peoples with 2 persons' junk?


While we're at it, let's get totally ahead of ourselves and start planning what we are going to wear each day!

[Not Afraid]

Can people just commit to what days they're going to be there first?

[blueerica]

NA! Hurry up so I can use the lotwiki!

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Ok, it was just a suggestion. Having 12 cars full of stuff and people is alot when you could have 6 cars of people and 1 small uhaul of stuff. I was trying to contribute.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Can people just commit to what days they're going to be there first?

Could someone point me to the info about the LoTwiki stuff, so I know what passwords I need. Chris' post is the first I've heard of such a thing.

[Alex]

Post 229 (http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/showpost.php?p=131303&postcount=229) above.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

Post 229 (http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/showpost.php?p=131303&postcount=229) above.

Appreciated. Thanks, Alex!

[Chernabog]

Cindy and I will be there Friday -- it's best that we dont get there Thursday nite and set up camp at nite, cuz that would suck donkey balls in the dark. Or dark donkey balls. Either works.

[innerSpaceman]

There hasn't been a post in this thread for 6 hours! What's going on?!?

[Disneyphile]

OMG!! OMG!!! You're right!

We're wasting valuable planning time!

In fact, I think I'l already forgotten what I'm going to pack. :eek:

[Morrigoon]

You rang?

j/k

[Gemini Cricket]

I just want to tell you both good luck. We're all counting on you.

[Chernabog]

I just want to tell you both good luck. We're all counting on you.

Whuuuuuuuuu? I hope you're not counting on Morrigoon and I to repopulate the planet via this camping trip... ;)

[Morrigoon]

Cherny, do you like gladiator movies?

[Alex]

The craving is strong, so how about I upgrade myself to 80%. I'd be on my own though, in a rental car, and unable to commit to specific days until much closer to then.

So still the case that if it fills up I'm out.

[Morrigoon]

There's room for what, like 4 people per site? That's 20... pretty sure there'll be room.

If anyone's interested, I found some additional photos of the campground here. (http://family.webshots.com/album/553841004KtPDUP)

[innerSpaceman]

Tecnically, there's room for 6 people per site. So we can have up to 30 people there!

Problem is, we can only have 10 cars. People and tentspace will not be an issue. Merely how many cars we can squeeze into. That's where we must economize as much as possible (in addition to squeezing all our foodstuff and other scented supplies into those tiny bear boxes)


So, we can have as many people as we can imagine ... as long as they hike into the Sierras and don't bring any food.

[Morrigoon]

LOL.

Well, I think we save some space by virtue of the idea of each site "hosting" a meal, because then we're not loading up on supplies for too many various meals each. Of course there is still lunch and snacks to be considered (as well as libations ;)) But seems like we've got quite a bit of room.

[Capt Jack]

think there will be any opportunities for fishing anywhere?
(or am I alone in that?)

[Alex]

According to this (http://gorp.away.com/gorp/resource/us_national_park/ca/fish_sk.htm), if you want to fish for the sake of fishing there are good pleasant spots but if you want to actually catch something worthwhile then it's not a great area.

[blueerica]

I think there are - but from what I recall the opportunities for catching might be a different story. Then again, the group I was with didn't seek anything out.

[Not Afraid]

Please fish and catch us some trout. Be sure to get up at 5 am to get the big ones, bring them back and have them cleaned so we can have trout and eggs for breakfast. Yum.

[blueerica]

Oooh, definitely yum!

Back to thinking about camping!

[Alex]

Ewwww, trout are the American cheese of fishes. Sure, you'd eat it if starvation were the alternative but that's about it.

[Capt Jack]

/sigh

ok, so no fishing. (mostly after adding up the license/day use/tackle yada yada)

I guess the group deer hunt is out too then, huh?

;)

[Ghoulish Delight]

I guess the group deer hunt is out too then, huh?

;)

No, the deer are free to hunt the group without a license and with no quotas if they'd like.

[DreadPirateRoberts]

No, the deer are free to hunt the group without a license and with no quotas if they'd like.

The image of the kangaroo with the rifle in Crocodile Dundee just came to mind.

[innerSpaceman]

I would suspect deer hunting is out - amongst the vaguely Disney-loving crowd (cough*Bambi*cough).



And it has been brought to my attention that some might not know that :iSm: means me, iSm. So, for clarification: if you'd like to reserve your spot on the LoT Sequoia Excursion of Swankamping ... send $50 per person to iSm, PayPal accepted (PM me for a target email address).

[Disneyphile]

Um, Ken and I still need to be added to the table on the Wiki -

Friday (arriving late morning), Saturday, Sunday, Monday (leaving early evening)

Thanks! :)

[innerSpaceman]

I'm not sure ... but I thought the purpose of the wiki was that everyone is free to add information as they wish.


I'm very tech-challenged ... and my wiki information was preloaded, so I'm not sure how it works. But if it isn't intuitive, then I would think its purpose is defeated.


In any event, we should get rid of that poll stuck to the top of this thread, and replace it with a link to the Wiki page.

[Disneyphile]

It keeps asking me for a password. :(

[innerSpaceman]

I think Alex set up the password as 123456.

[Alex]

The password is 123456.

I'll quickly convert the table to some friendlier Wiki code rather than the somewhat daunting HTML that is currently in there.

[innerSpaceman]

Confirmed:
To get you started here is a Wiki (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/FrontPage) for it with the above supply list ... Use it if you want. The password to make changes is 123456.

Ooops, Alex beat me to it.

[blueerica]

Ewwww, trout are the American cheese of fishes. Sure, you'd eat it if starvation were the alternative but that's about it.

Please tell me you've had freshly caught trout (not store-bought) or at least trout from a restaurant not located on a river that caught it no less than a couple of hours before being cooked). Otherwise, I'll just have to disregard what you said.

That said, trout is one of my least favorite fish, simply because it turns bad (IMO) so quickly. The only alternative for most is to have smoked trout, and having grown up on a river with parents that offered to smoke everyone's catch of the day... smoked trout stands proudly as one of the few foods that on smell alone can induce nausea for me.

But fresh trout, grilled and seasoned lightly.

Wow.

[Alex]

I grew up fishing. I've eaten trout less than 30 minutes after it was caught.

There is no stage of death when trout makes good food.

[Capt Jack]

Ive always been more of a catfish guy myself, but fish in general = :snap:

[Alex]

Except for sturgeon I tend to find most fresh water fish generally unpalatable (trout, bass, catfish, etc.). But trout is the only one I'd rather skip a meal than eat.

[Disneyphile]

Thanks for the help! :blush:

[BDBopper]

I've never had trout before at all. I've only had salmon and catfish and love both...oh and mahi mahi is not bad either.

[Chernabog]

I'm in with the "trout is nasty" category. And I like fish.

[Not Afraid]

I love trout. But, I love food in general.

[Not Afraid]

For those that met Kara and Tracy at my NYE party, you may get the pleasure of meeting them again in Sequoia. :)

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I love trout. But, I love food in general.

Me, too, on both counts.

[Disneyphile]

I hate anything that swims. :( (Actually, it just grosses me out.)

Although, shrimp are an exception, but they cannot be wearing more than their tails.

[innerSpaceman]

oooh, which camp night will we be dining on shrimp?

[Disneyphile]

oooh, which camp night will we be dining on shrimp?Hmmm. That wouldn't be a bad appetizer to offer. After all, there are bags of pre-cooked frozen shrimp at TJ's that just need to be thawed and served with cocktail sauce......

Very tempting. ;)

[innerSpaceman]

I'm glad something is tempting. I find the thought of gourmet camp meals for 20 quite daunting.

[Not Afraid]

Nah, it's easy.


Well, maybe not easy, but doable.

[innerSpaceman]

Can't we just have the whole thing catered?

[Not Afraid]

Sure. You organize that part, OK?

[Disneyphile]

Actually, it's a hell of a lot easier than trying to coordinate 15-20 people to bring something for multiple meals, which would create chaos (too many cooks at once), and also leave us with too much leftover food, like a giant potluck.

With the "teams", it's much cheaper too. A really nice meal to feed 20 can be done for around $50-$60, divided by 4 campers, equals $12.50-$15 spent for FIVE full meals. Really not a bad deal at all. :)

[Morrigoon]

Frankly, it's almost as easy to create a group meal as it is to create the individual meal. Serious savings in time and trouble (and cleanup!)

[blueerica]

You're preaching to the choir, girls. ;)

[Not Afraid]

Ive created a sticky thread (http://www.loungeoftomorrow.com/LoT/showthread.php?t=5689)with a link to the Lot Camping Wiki site (which will be updated as time goes on). This is a closed thread for information only. We can still discuss all we want here.

[Alex]

I served good dinners for more than 20 for a week at Burning Man and we were eating seafood and freshly made ice cream (with no machine) on day 5.

Just takes some thinking.

[Not Afraid]

I have plenty of menu ideas that I would happy to share, but it sounds like Alex has a few up his sleeve as well. Care to share?

[JWBear]

Hmmmm.... I might be tempted to make sourdough pancakes for everyone one morning...

[Morrigoon]

This seems like an awfully good deal on a tarp (http://www.amazon.com/Cummins-Industrial-Tools-Heavy-Duty/dp/B000FOO3PY/ref=sr_1_3/002-3149999-9987249?ie=UTF8&m=A1RVGQT9T7RRK5&s=hi&qid=1176963115&sr=1-3) ($1!)

And for some reason, this (http://www.amazon.com/Eureka-2601680-Double-Rocking-Hammock/dp/B000FVZFNQ/ref=sr_1_150/002-3149999-9987249?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods&qid=1176963582&sr=1-150) made me think about all that orgy talk from earlier.

[Alex]

Until you pay $5 in shipping for it. Go to Wal-Mart.

[blueerica]

Hmmmm.... I might be tempted to make sourdough pancakes for everyone one morning...

Sounds odd, but I'll try anything once.

What tops it? I am actually not one for many sweets... I could picture some butter. Or if I did go sweet - lemon marmalade.

[Alex]

Great dessert if you'll have campfires going: cinnamon roasted apples.

Just wrap in aluminum foil and toss in the fire for a while.

[Disneyphile]

I served good dinners for more than 20 for a week at Burning Man and we were eating seafood and freshly made ice cream (with no machine) on day 5.Burning Man? Now THAT would make one hell of a fun swanking.

I've been toying with the ice cream idea. After all, I have a bag of dry Dole Whip mix that would be easy to bring. ;)

[Alex]

All ice cream requires are two coffee cans, salt, ice, milk, flavoring, and duct tape.

[CrazyLegs]

I would love to go but I cant get off the ground. And We have motor home but it needs some work.

[Capt Jack]

Burning Man? Now THAT would make one hell of a fun swanking. ;)

is that a place or a planned evenings activity? :eek:

ok, on a more serious note. I would suggest the large aluminum disposables (like turkey pans etc)...a good number of them in fact for use as pots n pans. we would usually bring enough to not have to wash anything but utensils, just crush it and throw it in the recycler.

a thought

[JWBear]

Sounds odd, but I'll try anything once.

What tops it? I am actually not one for many sweets... I could picture some butter. Or if I did go sweet - lemon marmalade.

Just butter is best IMO (but then, I don't care for syrup anyway).

[JWBear]

I served good dinners for more than 20 for a week at Burning Man and we were eating seafood and freshly made ice cream (with no machine) on day 5.

Just takes some thinking.

Somehow, I just can't picture you at Burningman...

[Alex]

If it helps maintain your image of me, rest assured that even at Burning Man I'm a square.

[innerSpaceman]

Along with menu planning, I think the discussion about tossables vs. cleanables is a perfect subject for this thread.

There's a certain mind-set believing its best to make as little trash as possible and do much more clean-up. And the reverse philosophy is accepted as best by a different mind-set.


Let's take the example of paper plates vs. mess kits. If 20 people use their individual mess kits for 8 meals, that means cleaning mess kits 160 times. The alternative being 160 paper plates to dispose of.


What do we think works best for the SwankCamp ... and why?

[Alex]

If I were to show up it doesn't matter what other people bring I will have one plate, one bowl, one cup, plastic eating utensils, and I will clean them as necessary.

I don't see why there'd have to be a campwide policy.

[innerSpaceman]

Pfft, wait till we get to the rules of color scheme clothing allowed.






Swank doesn't happen all by itself.

[Not Afraid]

I'm in the "less trash is better" camp. No paper plates, plastic utinsils or plastic cups. I think the LoT of us can handle doing dishes. It's not that difficult or time consuming. Why? The world doesn't need more trash. I feel guilty enough when I use paper for the numerous parties I throw. Somehow, in the "wilderness" the reason to use washable items just seems more obvious - but only of you use biodegradable soap.

[JWBear]

But on the other hand... paper plates (paper, not plastic or foam) make good kindling for campfires.

[Alex]

I don't even use soap. So long as you wash them immediately with hot water everything gets clean enough.

[Not Afraid]

And, what's a little dirt?

It's good for you.

[Disneyphile]

Great dessert if you'll have campfires going: cinnamon roasted apples. Also brandied bananas. Soak peeled bananas in some brandy for about 20 minutes, then lightly dust with cinnamon and sugar, wrap in foil, and throw on the grill for a few minutes. :snap:
Pfft, wait till we get to the rules of color scheme clothing allowed. As long as clothing is still optional despite the color scheme, I'm happy. ;)

But on the other hand... paper plates (paper, not plastic or foam) make good kindling for campfires.This is an excellent point, and one that I've witnessed on large group campouts. I usually chuck the used papertowels and napkins in as well.

[Not Afraid]

Warning: I turn into old skool nature girl when camping.

[Disneyphile]

Hell, I've danced topless around a campfire before. (Alphabassetgirl did too. ;) ) Nothing says "freedom" like toasting ones boobs under the night sky.

[Capt Jack]

ok, Im down with that. time to break out the good china :D
( my 'good china' consisting of mostly wooden items)

edit: note to self. bring a camera :evil:

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I'm all the no paper/plastic rule. Good idea.

Now, here's were I publicly ask those attending who might have room in their cars for me, the L.A. resident non-driver.

[Not Afraid]

I'm going to go out on a limb here with details and wee if we can't do some "match up".

Erica/Audra (HB and LA)
CJ / Katie (it's the SD connection)

Those us us with larger vehicles are carrying 2 people plus equipment.

Chris and I (Volvo Wagon) (Long Beach)
T and FP (CRV) (Orange County)
ISM (Explorer) (West LA

Those with tiny tiny cars
Morri and Chernie (Mini or Matrix) (South County and The Valley)
JW Bear and Bill (Mini) (Long Beach)

Alex is on his own unless we have other bayarians coming.


I'm probably forgetting someone very obvious who will now be upset with me.

[Morrigoon]

GD and CP possibly?

[Ghoulish Delight]

GD and CP possibly?
We're still pretty unlikely to attend. Certainly not solid enough to be a reliable resource for a ride.

[innerSpaceman]

I'm trying to convince zapppop to go ... and I know he wants to. But if he can't, I'll have room in my car for a passenger. I note that EH 1812 is wiki-indicated for the entire run, which any passenger of mine would have to be.

In fact, even if zapp can go ... it might work out more logistically perfect if EH 1812 rides with me, and zapp rides up and back with someone camping less days.




ETA: I'm beginning to understand why all official swankings to date have not been out-of-town events.

[Capt Jack]

CJ / Katie (it's the SD connection)


I have no issues with that. I am however considering renting a vehcile for the trip up as my trucks 9mpg is a little...prohibitive.

[Eliza Hodgkins 1812]

I am totally okay traveling with anyone who will have me. Thanks for the offers. And a special thanks to those of you who are actually organizing this mad affair!

[katiesue]

I have no issues with that. I am however considering renting a vehcile for the trip up as my trucks 9mpg is a little...prohibitive.


I'm happy to drive or not. I've got a civic and you can stuff quite a lot in it.

[JWBear]

Bill and I should be ok in the Mini. I'm sure that we can get all our stuff in it. (We found out just how much a Mini will hold when we moved!)

[Alex]

If I am able to go and parking space is an issue, I may be able to arrange to leave my car somewhere in the area and get shuttled in by someone already there if anybody were willing.

[Disneyphile]

If I am able to go and parking space is an issue, I may be able to arrange to leave my car somewhere in the area and get shuttled in by someone already there if anybody were willing.I'll be happy to pick you up. In fact, I just downloaded "Baroque Hoedown" onto my iPod. I'll make sure I bring it for the ride up to the site. :evil:

[Alex]

Never fear, my capacity to ignore music is pretty limitless. Just in the the context of simultaneously paying attention to a parade and ignoring it (if I happen to be in the area of the parade but not watching it the music does not bother me because I ignore it).

[Not Afraid]

Traci and Kara are in for this as well. I just had tea with both of them.

[innerSpaceman]

Coool, I'm bringing Laurie.

[Not Afraid]

hehehehe

I've been playing with the Wiki page and it's now called the

sWizzel stIKI

Thanks Traci!

[€uroMeinke]

Alex is on his own unless we have other bayarians coming.


If I am able to go and parking space is an issue, I may be able to arrange to leave my car somewhere in the area and get shuttled in by someone already there if anybody were willing.

I think Steph can pick him up in the convertible she rents when she comes out to join us for her birthday swanking

[Disneyphile]

While everyone should bring BandAids (common sense), Ken and I will have a full-service First Aid system with us should anyone have just about any ailment. (Minus a defibrillator. For that, we have our jumper cables, complete with jeweled nipple clamps. ;) )

For upset tummies, blisters, cuts, scrapes, mosquito bites, headaches, etc., we'll be happy to help out. Just come see us. :) (That is, unless you've fainted, and then hopefully someone can drag you over. ;) )

(I'll add this to the Wiki so people don't have to worry.)

[Morrigoon]

By medical necessity, expect me to have a healthy supply of Immodium (loperamide).

The question, Dphile, is which of us is bringing the ultimate medicament: Rose Bowl Mix?

[Disneyphile]

The question, Dphile, is which of us is bringing the ultimate medicament: Rose Bowl Mix?I'm sure there will be plenty of booze up there. ;)

[Stan4dSteph]

I think Steph can pick him up in the convertible she rents when she comes out to join us for her birthday swankingHehe. :)

[innerSpaceman]

Aw, c',mon Steph. Your birthday's the day before mine. We could have an uberswantastic birthdayfestivus! In the woods!











And, um, perhaps if JWBear would stop posting so much, I wouldn't have gotten obsessed with cartoon hot gay boys ... hence my new avatar that you will all just have to deal with until somebody finds me a MAN (one who's bad, and not merely drawn that way).

[Chernabog]

I'll be happy to pick you up. In fact, I just downloaded "Baroque Hoedown" onto my iPod. I'll make sure I bring it for the ride up to the site. :evil:

OMG you people are such dorks! Oh..... wait. :D

[Capt Jack]

does anyone have a coffee pot that plugs into a vehicle power port? Im looking at snagging one, mostly cuz no coffee = bad morning for Jack.

[katiesue]

I have a converter that you can plug into your car lighter and then plug any normal appliance into it.

[Not Afraid]

French Press, baby!

[BarTopDancer]

I am out for sure. Way to much other stuff going on in June.

[Alex]

I've gone ahead and committed. Unless parking space becomes an issue in which case I can back out.

Be warned, I'm a minimalist camper. I'll have a tent (which if the weather is good I won't even use), a sleeping bag, basic eating and cooking supplies. A camera, sufficient clothes, a folding chair, and a book.

So unless I am explicitly told to bring something else don't expect I'll have it. I'm fine with contributing to communal meals but I don't eat breakfast and won't ever be at camp during the day for lunch.

If anybody else from the Bay Area needs a ride I'll certainly have room to bring at least one other person.


For paying, I don't use PayPal. Steve, if you're willing to PM me an address I'll mail you a check if that is satisfactory.

[blueerica]

:D

[BDBopper]

If it makes it easier for everyone I will sit this one out. You guys need more room to get everyone out there. You don't need to be worrying about me at all.

I'll come out at another time.

Why are most of my friends at the entire other end of the cosmos? LOL

[innerSpaceman]

Move to L.A., dude.




Of course, it's traditional for first-time out-of-town Swankers to be hosted to a grand day at Disneyland before anything else. It's sort of our initiation.


But don't count yourself out of things just because of space. We have plenty of space for people, just not so much for cars. Besides, I like your idea of three-legged races and such (especially since, budump-bump, I don't need a partner to run a three-legged race).

[katiesue]

:rolleyes:

[Alex]

He left out the part about having really short legs.

[Not Afraid]

Someone turned Alex "on" again. ;)

[BDBopper]

Move to L.A., dude.




Of course, it's traditional for first-time out-of-town Swankers to be hosted to a grand day at Disneyland before anything else. It's sort of our initiation.


But don't count yourself out of things just because of space. We have plenty of space for people, just not so much for cars. Besides, I like your idea of three-legged races and such (especially since, budump-bump, I don't need a partner to run a three-legged race).

Well I am looking at San Antonio for a first step. It is closer to SoCal than Georgia is. After finishing school and such and saving money-if I can do that in school-than I will consider SoCal.

Glad you love my idea for the Wacky Olympics.

The reason why I said what I did is first of all I'd be coming with no equipment. I'd have to share someone else's in a situation where there is not a unlimited amount of room in vehicles for equipment, let alone an extra seat for moi.

Aso it might be much more comfortable for me to do a Camping Swanking after a first swanking. this is because I have special needs that might be confusing to people who have not met me in person before. It's not like I am like most people would be coming out there. I can't drive myself and special arrangements would have to be made for stuff like that. I know we could wing it but would that be comfortable to the group at large?

[blueerica]

Thinking of Wacky Olympics, I'm co-chairing an event that has an event like that as a part of it. Secondly, I must have missed the post about three-legged races. Hmmm..

[Morrigoon]

Aw, c',mon Steph. Your birthday's the day before mine. We could have an uberswantastic birthdayfestivus! In the woods!

Oh my... my brain needs a soaping now...

[Capt Jack]

I can't drive myself and special arrangements would have to be made for stuff like that. I know we could wing it but would that be comfortable to the group at large?

well, I ran around manhattan with a guy in a wheelchair (and various other needs) for a week. more to the fact I chased him around manhattan just trying to keep up. for what its worth, Im cool with it

[Not Afraid]

I can't believe we wend several days without a post in this thread!

[Alex]

As I hinted before, now that I've said I'll go my interest in planning has evaporated.

[MouseWife]

No, no, that isn't it, Alex. It was all of that wonderful weather. Had people outside enjoying it all. :D

{or else like me their computer was being serviced.....or hogged up}

[blueerica]

No, no, that isn't it, Alex. It was all of that wonderful weather. Had people outside enjoying it all. :D

{or else like me their computer was being serviced.....or hogged up}

Wonderful weather?

Where?

[MouseWife]

Wonderful weather?

Where?

Psst...I was just trying to make him feel better...

[blueerica]

Psst...I was just trying to make him feel better...

Oops!






























:blush:

[Alex]

Make me feel better about what? I don't feel bad about anything.

[MouseWife]

Make me feel better about what? I don't feel bad about anything.


I didn't think so. Really, it was a bit sarcastic.

But, I thought I'd rib blueerica a bit. :D I think she experienced a bit of awful weather...won't go there....her little adventure....yikes!

Really, though, I enjoyed the weather. Friday late afternoon, when it was pouring, hailing {sp?}, thunder and lightning-ing, and the Boy was peeking through the blinds I told him to just open them wide up and we could enjoy it. He was surprised and we did.

[blueerica]

Alas, I normally like the weather... I get to stay in, not be lost anywhere.... ;)

[MouseWife]

That sounded like a bit out of a horror movie....just don't look in the back seat!!! :eek:

[Morrigoon]

Maybe we just said all that needed to be said for the time being :)

[MouseWife]

Oh, except I should say this.

I was toying with going but as I was folding my comforter that I have on my bed, lovingly carressing it's folds, I realized, I can not take this to go camping. I take this everywhere. I fold it up and sit on it {to smash the down and fit better} for our trips.

So, if I had given the impression that I was considering it {because I was on another thread} I am now not. :(

I will miss the hikes, the fun, and most definitely participating in the cooking.

[Capt Jack]

you and your comforter are welcome none the less Im sure

[MouseWife]

you and your comforter are welcome none the less Im sure


Thank you. :)


{I'll admit, that isn't the response I was expecting...more like 'A comforter toting gal like you just wouldn't fit in anyways'....}

[katiesue]

What we can't bring comforters? What about my feather mattress?

[Disneyphile]

We're bringing Ken's old down comforter for our bed. Nice and warm and snuggly! :D

Then again, we also bring a queen sized air mattress with portable frame, so we bring regular bedding instead of sleeping bags anyway. :)

[BDBopper]

No, no, that isn't it, Alex. It was all of that wonderful weather. Had people outside enjoying it all. :D

{or else like me their computer was being serviced.....or hogged up}

I was running diagnostics on the PC this weekend.

[BDBopper]

Wonderful weather?

Where?

It was an absolutely gorgeous weekend down here in the South, Y'all! :)

[innerSpaceman]

Who said anything about not bringing comforters? I expect most folks will bring their most comfy, cherished, heirloom comforter to sleep snooky in their tents with.

[Chernabog]

Who said anything about not bringing comforters? I expect most folks will bring their most comfy, cherished, heirloom comforter to sleep snooky in their tents with.


Really? In the middle of the summer? Isn't a sleeping bag enough?

[Alex]

Yeah, I'll barely even bring a sleeping bag. But if someone does want a big blanket there's no reason they couldn't.

[Not Afraid]

I think we will be feeling out of place with our small tent, slef inflating camping pads and North Face Mummy Bags.

[DreadPirateRoberts]

I think we will be feeling out of place with our small tent, slef inflating camping pads and North Face Mummy Bags.

I thought size didn't matter.

[Alex]

If weather isn't great then I'll have a small tent and a sleeping bag. if it is fine then I'll have a tent that doesn't leave my trunk and a fleece sleepsack in which I'll just sleep outside on the ground, no pad (before going to sleep I'll throw a couple hot dogs on top of a neighboring tent so that when bears show up they'll be too distracted to eat me).

[JWBear]

If weather isn't great then I'll have a small tent and a sleeping bag. if it is fine then I'll have a tent that doesn't leave my trunk and a fleece sleepsack in which I'll just sleep outside on the ground, no pad (before going to sleep I'll throw a couple hot dogs on top of a neighboring tent so that when bears show up they'll be too distracted to eat me).

Don't worry; you're safe from us. Besides, your distraction tactic wouldn't work anyway. Bill doesn't like hot dogs.

[Chernabog]

I thought size didn't matter.

Oh that's bulls**t and you know it. ;)

[Morrigoon]

I think we will be feeling out of place with our small tent, slef inflating camping pads and North Face Mummy Bags.

Out of place? Never. Just defined as "Hard-core swank" :cool:

[BDBopper]

If weather isn't great then I'll have a small tent and a sleeping bag. if it is fine then I'll have a tent that doesn't leave my trunk and a fleece sleepsack in which I'll just sleep outside on the ground, no pad (before going to sleep I'll throw a couple hot dogs on top of a neighboring tent so that when bears show up they'll be too distracted to eat me).

What about Big Foot?

[innerSpaceman]

In all seriousness, Alex. Bears are going to rummage through our campsite at night. Are you not concerned about sleeping outside where they will, at the very least, snif you at close range to see whether you are alive or if you are meat?

[Alex]

Not really. If they had any interest in eating people, do you think tents would stop them?

When it comes to getting hassled by wildlife the bigger concern would be raccoons, which can be very aggressive.

[MouseWife]

In all seriousness, Alex. Bears are going to rummage through our campsite at night. Are you not concerned about sleeping outside where they will, at the very least, snif you at close range to see whether you are alive or if you are meat?


:eek: :eek:

Okay, I think it would scare the carp outta me.

I've heard of them sniffing up the tents and that is bad enough but smelling me right on, agh!

[Not Afraid]

Well, think of it this way......the Bear/Alex meet will make for great stories.

[Alex]

Honestly, assuming it didn't actually eat me how cool would it be to awake at 3 a.m. to a wild bear sniffing you? The momentary terror would be so worth it.

[Not Afraid]

You'd better bring 2 sleep sacks, because one may end up wet with pee.



Speaking of pee.......nevermind. Everyone does NOT need to know this.

[Alex]

There are always two sleep sacks in the trunk. But I suspect I'd be really tempted to try and pet it. Or at least make sure it saw the hot dog on the next tent over.

[Not Afraid]

Soooo, Alex is sharing a campsite with who again? :)

[blueerica]

In all seriousness, Alex. Bears are going to rummage through our campsite at night. Are you not concerned about sleeping outside where they will, at the very least, snif you at close range to see whether you are alive or if you are meat?

Honestly, the only thing that will put me in a tent to sleep at night is the thought of rain, or just feeling like I need to be inside something, which is rare, at best.

My last trip up to the Sequoias, I slept outside. One night, it was storming, so I went into a tent, only to have someone take video of a bear in my campsite during the wee hours of the morning. The bear did some gruesome things to a couple of small critters, apparently, but didn't bother any of the humans.

And yeah, I'd sleep outside again, though I'd probably prefer it if someone else were sleeping outside in the vicinity. :) I'm bringing a 2-person pop-up in the event of rain.

[blueerica]

Oh, and if you see a bear, just be able to make a loud noise ASAP. They can be aggressive, but if you let them know you're in charge (a.k.a. big and loud) they tend to run off.

It's really not a big deal.

Besides, being in a tent only puts a little less than a millimeter between you and the bear. It'd be like a gift wrapped snack for good 'ol Teddy.

[Alex]

Apparently I'm sharing with blueerica.

[Morrigoon]

You kids have fun w/that... I'll be in my tent.

[innerSpaceman]

And seriously, if I don't find a tentmate to aid in my insane bearnightfrights, I'm not even going.

[Morrigoon]

Maybe Cherny will invite you into our tent... you can keep him from trying to repopulate the planet with me :)

[Not Afraid]

I thought Laurie was going?

[Disneyphile]

Geesh. People scared of little ol' bears...... :p

Now, insects.... that's another story. And believe me, if I come into contact to an insect, the whole mountainside will hear the screams. :( I have a very serious phobia, but I survive. If anyone should ever see something crawling on me, just brush it off, and tell me I had a fuzzle or leaf or something. Otherwise, my skin will crawl for a good 24 hours, let alone I won't be able to sleep.

[Alex]

You realize that now everybody will spend the entire weekend brushing you and saying things like "that was the most legs I've ever seen on a leaf!" and "I didn't know fuzzle has pincers!"

[Capt Jack]

Oh, and if you see a bear, just be able to make a loud noise ASAP.

you mean like a high pitched school-girlish scream? or the kabang! of me (dropping a brick in) my pants?

:D

(kidding...mostly)

[blueerica]

Oh man, I need to spread some mojo around before giving any more to Capt Jack

[BDBopper]

And seriously, if I don't find a tentmate to aid in my insane bearnightfrights, I'm not even going.

I use a cane..so we could always fend the bear off with that. LOL

[MouseWife]

Okay, I get the idea of making noises to scare them off.

And, I thought of you, Disneyphile, when there was a big giant mosquito right outside my front door last night {I also do not like bugs and will see/feel them everywhere once I've seen one....summertime, fleas, freckles, PITA}.

True, I shouldn't be too afraid of bears. My s-i-l chased off a bear that was getting into their food supply during the night. Scared the kids she had with her senseless. {have they gone back? no.}

BUT my idea of the tent is that the bears are not stupid. Sure, they can get into anything, tents, cars, etc. But, they know better. I think they feel what ever is out there in the open is for them.

Something that always stuck with us was seeing a motorcycle with a big bite taken out of its' seat.

Why? Did they person have food under the seat {a secret compartment?} are a very bad case of gas? Hmm...{it was so like 'Where's the cream filling??}

OH and, anyone see the film about the guy who was mauled up in Alaska with his girlfriend by the bears? It was a very interesting movie and the talk here about no sex made me wonder if that could be what did them in? {no conversation value here unless anyone also saw the movie.....:D }

[Not Afraid]

I'm going to be really disappointed if we don't see any bears.

[Capt Jack]

when my brothers and I were kids, my dad would take us camping a lot. one year (in the Sequoias no less. I do believe it was even in the Dorst campground) our camp was raided by bears. they very expertly opened each and every cooler, ate near the entire contents (leaving us with nothing more than pancake mix and a few mint candies)

my dad aparrently discovered them during the raid and shined a flashlight on them. this alone made the pair run off.

the bears are undoubtedly smart enough to know when the jig is up, but I for one will not be sleeping outdoors. the image of being sniffed/sampled in my sleep is enough to make me want that scant few mm of protection the tent will afford.

trust me, the mole we discovered under the tent and the deer that chased my brother and I were by far more frightening.

[MouseWife]

I'm going to be really disappointed if we don't see any bears.


LOL I never am. When we go to Yosemite they always say there are bear sightings but I never do. I look out in the meadows during our morning drives and nothing.

I know I am being unrealistic, all of these years and never a sighting or a report of injury....

{moles are really scary! Gophers, too!! Big teeth!!}

[Not Afraid]

My Bro and SIL live just outside Yosemite. A neighbor of theirs came home to find the side (kitchen) door of her house open. She positioned her car so that her headlight were shinning into the kitchen door. There was a bear in her kitchen, standing on its hind legs with the freezer door open, a tub of ice cream in its arm, scooping ice cream into its mouth.

My worst wildlife experiences have been with rodents.

[Alex]

I've never had a bad wildlife experience, they're all cool. And that includes the time we realized we were in a small lava tube belonging to a cougar, climbing a big rock and finding out that the whole thing was essentially a giant anthill, a bald eagle eating my hosts' cat, and waking up to rattlesnakes in places they shouldn't be.

The worst thing that could happen is you die. And I've never heard any dead people complain so I just assume it isn't that bad. Sure, some people complain about the dying part, but they're just whiners.

[Capt Jack]

My worst wildlife experiences have been with rodents.

Oh! you just reminded me of another animal incident. my late wife and I were camping at the grand canyon. middle of the night, black as pitch outside.

something hits the tent that sounded like a pine cone falling out of a tree. then another, then another and another. I open the window flap and shine my flashlight outside. for as far as the light would shine (it was one of those big cop-type maglights, so it went a considerable distance) were, from what I could see, kangaroo rats or some other vermin all running in one direction. almost like a lemming migration. they were crashing into everything, bouncing off the tent and trees, knocking everything in the campsite around and making a rukus to beat the band. needless to say, wifey was freaked out beyond all consolation. I have to admit it was pretty F'in strange. a minute later, theyre all gone and its dead silent again.

she insisted we leave that morning and was well packed and sitting in the truck by the time sunrise came along. needless to say, that was the last camping trip for her.

[blueerica]

My worst nature experience (that I can think of right now) really wasn't all that bad. On my last trip to Utah, I went out to Antelope Island. It was a beautiful day, when we decided to walk up... Oh, I forget what it's called Bison Point, or Ridge or something. Anyhow, there were a few gnats, but nothing to worry about. As we ascended, it got worse, but... we were getting so close! The view was supposedly breathtaking, so gnats... pshaw! They were nothing compared to what we thought we would see. As we get to the top, the gnat situation was bordering on unbearable, the view was so-so (probably because we were spending our time swatting at the gnats sticking to our sweaty necks) and the way down was steep and awkward with grandmas and grandpas trying to make it up the steep and thin pathway.

Once back to solid ground, we cleared as many of the gnats off ourselves as we could, got into the car, spent the day elsewhere on the island, went home, took a shower and... AAAAAAAAAAACCCCCKKKKKK!!! Gnats going down the drain. Which meant gnats in my hair all day.

And really, gnats aren't all that bad. But, now I've gotta go jump around the house because I feel gnats all over me again.

[innerSpaceman]

N.A. - firstly, I am gratified and relieved you will be standing watch over our campground all night - - for that is the only time you are likely to see a bear.

And, alas, Laurie can't go. So if neither zapppop nor Gemini Cricket are up for it (and can get a retail/restaurant weekend off work), I'm seriously not going.

It's not bears I'm really frightened of (but, yeah that 1 mm of tent nylon is to protect ME from seeing them, not them from getting at me).

I had a very scary episode the last time I went camping. Freaked me and my girlfriend out. We almost abandoned our campsite and everyone in it to be butchered by something evil and supernatural ... but instead watched over the campsite till dawn from within the safety (and escape-readiness) of our vehicle.


I won't be tent-sleeping alone ... ever again.

[Capt Jack]

this will be my first camping trip "alone" as it were (even though I'll be far from alone). alone as in no family or other heavily armed members of a party to assist in the event of the unforseen UFO/mutant martian bear attacks.

I can hardly wait! :D


I had a very scary episode the last time I went camping. Freaked me and my girlfriend out. We almost abandoned our campsite and everyone in it to be butchered by something evil and supernatural ... but instead watched over the campsite till dawn from within the safety (and escape-readiness) of our vehicle.

sounds like a great story! you have to come even if only to tell us the rest of that tale!

[Moonliner]

I use a cane..so we could always fend the bear off with that. LOL


I like what the Ranger told us about bears before we went hiking in Denali:

"Prey runs. You don't want to be prey. Stand your ground, be big and be loud. "

[Disneyphile]

Bears are also very lazy. They're kinda like giant cats.

On my last big campout up in the Angeles Forest, we had two of them wandering our site during the day. (It was a group campsite, but most of the group wasn't there yet, so there was a lot of open space.)

We sat back, and watched them. One tried to look in the dumpster, but then couldn't get it open, so just wandered off slowly. The other sniffed around an empty picnic table, and then decided that was too much effort, so just flopped to the ground right next to it to relax in the shade. It laid there for about a half hour, occasionally cleaning itself, and just hanging out.

We were about 30 feet away - it would glance at us from time to time, but couldn't bother getting back to its feet until it found interest in something else to do.

[Capt Jack]

yeah, thats been more like 90% of the bear encounters Ive had as well.

"ooh a bear!"
"whats it doing?"
"not a heck of a lot"
"kewl!"

[blueerica]

iSm... I want you to go, and if it means sleeping in a tent, then by golly I'll do it!

[Morrigoon]

Yeah, we can't celebrate iSm's birthday w/out iSm!

[BDBopper]

I'm going to be really disappointed if we don't see any bears.

You could always play nice and be friendly with the bears. Maybe choreograph "In The Bag" andh ave them clean up the campsite.

Yeah like that's going to happen. LOL

[Morrigoon]

Can someone add the bear box dimensions to the wiki? I know they're in this thread somewhere, but damned if I can find it...

[Disneyphile]

Maybe choreograph "In The Bag" andh ave them clean up the campsite. Best reference ever! :snap: :D

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Note to self: buy bear suit. show up unexpectedly. scare people.

[Ponine]

You decide to do that, you pm me.
That I would show up for. :snap:

[Morrigoon]

Dude, Target has a bitchin' tent on sale right now, has a screened-in porch attached and everything: http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_2/602-3843852-5266254?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B000E7ZK2M

[Chernabog]

Wow this board sure has a lot of bears. :) I just realized!

[Capt Jack]

Dude, Target has a bitchin' tent on sale right now, has a screened-in porch attached and everything: http://www.target.com/gp/detail.html/ref=br_1_2/602-3843852-5266254?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&asin=B000E7ZK2M

wow, thats a nice one. decent price as well

[Alex]

For the life of me I can't think of a reason why a porch on a tent would be useful.

Though I am still pissed that Lani and I managed to lose (likely by leaving in a rental car) our very expensive two-person, four-season tent a few years ago.

Though for car camping the $40 Coleman from Wal-Mart has served us well since.

[€uroMeinke]

I'm going to be really disappointed if we don't see any bears.

We'll just have to have lots and lots of sex to attract them

[Morrigoon]

You fight the good fight Euro ;)

I think I've decided on a tent, but it's not the one I linked. Saw one I liked at Walmart for $67.

[Ghoulish Delight]

For the life of me I can't think of a reason why a porch on a tent would be useful.I can see it. Get some shade and respite from bugs while still being able to see what's goin' on outside. Better than those stupid half windows.

[innerSpaceman]

I've never been camping where anyone ever spent a moment in their tent before bedtime that didn't involve changing clothes, grabbing some needed item, or fvcking.

[Morrigoon]

I'm pretty sure the function is to eliminate the need for a screen house to eat in. At least that's how the picture kind of illustrates its use.

[NirvanaMan]

I've been trying to search through these pages but been haven't able to find what I'm looking for with the rather limited time I have unfortunately due to my hellish job. Would someone mind recapping real quick what the decision is? It sounds as if a decision has been made, but perhaps I am mistaken.

When/Where? I'm all about the camping. Been forever since I've done it. I'll make the dough-boys, just like I used to back in Boy Scouts.

[Ghoulish Delight]

The Wiki (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/Key%20Information) knows all. (Well, almost all. I don't think it knows which brand of hotdogs bears prefer, you'll have to ask Alex).

[Morrigoon]

Bears prefer Alex's hot dogs

[innerSpaceman]

And if you are too lazy to wiki linky, the lowdown is - we have 5 campsites at Dorst Campground in Sequoia National Park, from Thursday, June 28 through and including Monday, July 2 (hmmm, why does that date ring a bell?)

We have room for 10 cars and potentially 30 people, but we're going to settle on 20 (unless more than that want to go). It's a $50 buy-in, whether you are coming for 2 days or all 5.

At this point, we have plenty more room for plenty more people.

We are planning fun activities - everything from cool hikes, cave explorations, a voyage to Kings Canyon and perhaps even wacky three-legged races (pants optional, NirvanaMan!) - that everyone will be free to choose from as they wish.

Spots in Swank Camp are reserved by sending yours truly $50 per person, via check, money order or PayPal.


It's going to be a blast.



[/summary]

[Not Afraid]

Oh, and add your name to the Wiki (password is 123456) so we know you're coming and what days you'll be there.

Food will be decided upon when we know who is camping.

[Not Afraid]

Can someone add the bear box dimensions to the wiki? I know they're in this thread somewhere, but damned if I can find it...

I added the info to the Wiki.

[Not Afraid]

...we have 5 campsites at Dorst Campground in Sequoia National Park, from Thursday, June 18 through and including Monday, July 2 (hmmm, why does that date ring a bell?)



You're going to be one dirty bastard after 2 weeks in the woods!

[innerSpaceman]

Fixed.





OMG, Not Afraid caught me in a typo!

[Not Afraid]

We are on the border of running out of parking spaces!

[Alex]

The Wiki (http://lotcamping.pbwiki.com/Key%20Information) knows all. (Well, almost all. I don't think it knows which brand of hotdogs bears prefer, you'll have to ask Alex).

Hebrew National. Bears keep kosher. That's why you've never seen one eating lobster tails.

[innerSpaceman]

Ok, by my count, we have about 20 swankers interested. ... Ok, there's me, Not Afraid, €uroMeinke, blueerica, BarTopDancer, Gemini Cricket, Ghoulish Delight, Cadaverous Pallor, Disneyphile, Frodo Potter, Morrigoon, Chernabog, Capt Jack, katiesue, Kevy Baby (and Gus Gus, I assume), NirvanaMan (and Babette, I assume), maybe zapppop and possibly even the likes of Alex Stroup.
So, with GD and CP out, but JWBear and Bill in ... and BTD out and EH 1812 in, that leaves things exactly where we predicted. Haven't heard from Kevy and Gus Gus, but they're still somewhere on the high seas, no?

Gemini Cricket and zapppop have been uninterneted for a while ... but in speaking with them, I don't get the impression Gemini Cricket is too keen on this ... and while zapppop wants to go, I'm not sure he'll be able to.

Oh, and NA's pals who just joined LoT are coming, so that's two more. But roughly I think we are just about where we thought in terms of numbers. And if we go over by a car or two, we'll just have to work out better carpooling arrangements.

[Not Afraid]

Missing from the list now - and interesting in going - are Kara / Traci and Kevin / Susan. We probably need to start a carpool list going next then get food plans going.

We can probably fit at least one additional person in the Volvo and, in a pinch (and I do mean pinch) 2 (depending on the size of their gear).

Two of the vehicles are Minis - which is great. They will offset our other behemoths. The trick will be to match travel dates with locations, car size and gear.

[Alex]

Since I'll likely be unable to help in the carpooling department if people are giving up space to passengers, I'd be happy to haul in foodstuffs if given shopping lists.

[Not Afraid]

Alex, are you driving the peddle car? ;)

Civics are relatively small as well.

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

Well, I'd say I'd really really really really really like to go. The job/housing flux is such a factor right now.

[Alex]

A car will have to be rented that weekend. Either I'll use it to get there or I'll leave it for Lani and use the Civic.

But if it is just me and my minimal camping gear, I'd be able to haul a lot of stuff (half a trunk, the entire back seat, and the front passenger seat if need be). No probably not everything (especially perishables that would have to be put in coolers) but a fair amount if it would help anybody. (And the people getting their before me would obviously need to eat for a day anyway).

[blueerica]

I can't wait to go camping. Well, I'll have to. But I can't wait.

[Disneyphile]

We need Bornieo there in a bear suit. Hell, I'd even pay for the suit rental! :evil:

[CoasterMatt]

I really really really really want to go...

But that is a very profitable time of year for me.

[innerSpaceman]

But you could be back in time for the clean-up Fourth of July weekend, er, um, middle-of-the-week.

[Ghoulish Delight]

Hebrew National. Bears keep kosher. That's why you've never seen one eating lobster tails.
But have you ever seen one grab a bagel and cream cheese for the salmon they just caught?

[MouseWife]

After all the bug talk~

Sitting watching 'Night at the Museum' I feel something on my arm. I think it is just a hair but look over and it is a pincher bug!!! :eek: I brush it off but then realize the little sh!t will be crawling around the floor so I find it and throw it out.

Then, while sitting here at the computer, a spider runs across the desk. :eek: Quickly thinking I capture it underneath my glass coffee cup. I may or may not let it go.

[DreadPirateRoberts]

Then, while sitting here at the computer, a spider runs across the desk. :eek: Quickly thinking I capture it underneath my glass coffee cup. I may or may not let it go.

Let her go. It might be one of Charlotte's daughters.

[MouseWife]

LOL Oh, okay. :)

[BDBopper]

Okay...that's enough. Stop trying to scare the living daylights out of Disneyphile. LOL She deserves better.

[BDBopper]

I'll keep you guys up to date on it...but I am not sure if I would have enough green to make the scene out there. We'll see.

[MouseWife]

Okay...that's enough. Stop trying to scare the living daylights out of Disneyphile. LOL She deserves better.

LOL I am not kidding with my stories!! I feel as Disneyphile does, just one mention and I forever see the darn critters everywhere.

My imagination works overtime.

What concerns me is that any scent will attract everything {I use unscented deodorants/soaps/lotions} but what about bug repellants?

And, a worker at Camp Curry told me that if I smoked in my car it would kill the odors from our barbecue....just an idea....

[Capt Jack]

then we need to add 'fly swatter' to the stuff to bring list

[Alex]

Millions of people camp in the Sierras every summer. Exactly two of them are eaten by wildlife.

This year that will happen on June 16.

So you'll be perfectly safe.

[innerSpaceman]

Alex, while I don't think it will prove practical for people to relay their grocery orders to you ... perhaps you could be in charge of bringing wood (which we would all contribute to the price of), and be the official firewood transporter for this excursion.

[Alex]

That might be a better idea but it suddenly occurs to me that what I was suggested would break the Zeroth rule of group camping:

Rule 0: You never, ever, rely on one person to bring all the food. If you do that person will invariably flake out, flame out, or otherwise expire in transit leaving you with nothing to eat.

[Disneyphile]

then we need to add 'fly swatter' to the stuff to bring listThanks for the reminder, actually!

We have one of those electric ones. We call it the Redneck Tennis Racket. :evil: Fun for everyone!

(Yes, it's a battery-operated bug zapper that looks like a small racket.)

[Bornieo: Fully Loaded]

FYI - Re Food stuff.

In 3-Rivers there is a small Mom/Pop market that was really good. Then down the hill there are Markets within an hour drive. So, a run down a few times for supplies isn't impossible! :)

[Capt Jack]

MRE's (http://cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0014329515372a&type=product&cmCat=search&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=MRE&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=MRE&noImage=0) all around!!!


(yes, Im seriously considering them)

[BarTopDancer]

MRE's (http://cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0014329515372a&type=product&cmCat=search&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=MRE&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=MRE&noImage=0) all around!!!


(yes, Im seriously considering them)

Yum.


(yes, I like MRE's. I think it is the high amount of salt in them.)

[Capt Jack]

even if theyre terrible Ive lived on worse things for weeks on end. a couple days wouldnt kill me.

and yeah, Im a horrid salt fiend myself.

[Chernabog]

Wow I have never seen one of those MRE things before, pretty cool!!! The food looks like your typical microwave food.

[Ghoulish Delight]

MRE's (http://cabelas.com/cabelas/en/templates/links/link.jsp?id=0014329515372a&type=product&cmCat=search&returnPage=search-results1.jsp&QueryText=MRE&N=4887&Ntk=Products&Ntx=mode+matchall&Nty=1&Ntt=MRE&noImage=0) all around!!!


(yes, Im seriously considering them)
I notice they're categorized under "Insect Repellent". That's a good sign.

[innerSpaceman]

I won't stand for such a thing during our camping trip ....



... but it sounds perfect for the one or two meals zapp and I are going to miss down at Phantom Ranch (where the nearest store is two miles - - straight up!)


* * * * *

Alex - yeah, I'm aware of the zeroeth rule ... and so I wouldn't put the entire firewood burden on you. But I think we would be willing to risk putting a vast part of it on you, seeing that - if you flake or flame* - we can always get firewood in the Park itself, or make an emergency run to the foothills for it.





* I wouldn't suggest flaming with all that wood in the car.

[BDBopper]

then we need to add 'fly swatter' to the stuff to bring list

What about a bug zapper? "Ooohh the light. It's so beautiful! ZAP!"

[Capt Jack]

we can do 'bug shots'!

bzzzzzzzt!
ok, everyone take a drink!

[Alex]

Zeroth Rule doesn't apply to firewood (especially in areas where it can be bought easily). Just food.

We did that once and the guy who was supposed to bring the food didn't show up until a day late. He didn't seem to see the problem with that.

[BDBopper]

Spam Spam Spam Spam Spammity Spam Spam Wonderful Spam Wonderful Spam!!!

[Disneyphile]

we can do 'bug shots'!Or, I can bring two of the rackets and we can make it a game. ;)

[Capt Jack]

I just pictured combining the two and half of us coming home hungover with waffle patterns on our faces.

[Disneyphile]

I just pictured combining the two and half of us coming home hungover with waffle patterns on our faces.That would be bad, because those waffle patterns would be burned into our skin.

(Yeah, while the button's depressed, don't touch the mesh. Ken experimented with that and found out the hard way. ;) )

The coolest thing though - the bigger the bug, the bigger the blue flash. The thing puts out some serious mini lightning with a loud "zzzzzt!" It's worth using just for the light show. :evil:

[AllyOops!]

Aww! This sounds like such fun I'll have to pitch my tent!

And by tent I mean Hotel in a neighboring city. Ally + severe allergies + fear of snakes + fist sized insects + general foo foo girliness = the indoor type. :(

[Morrigoon]

I knew it... walmart.com HAS removed items from its tent listing. I was in the store the other day and they have (the tent I'm thinking of getting), which is NOT on their site, AND they have a Coleman tent that's $5 cheaper in the store (where there is no shipping charge either!)