I finally got trekking poles. I always struggle with small rocks and such, especially when coming back down, so that won't be a problem anymore! Now, I can be safe, and without constant worry that I'll stumble and break my ankle or something. (Seriously a silent fear of mine - having to be carried off a trail.)
I scored a gorgeous pair of Swissgear poles with compasses in the handles for $18 at WalMart, of all places.
