This post has been updated as of February 2019 for accuracy. It's no secret that I think everyone should have a blog. Even in a world dominated by social media influencers, where so many people think blogging is dead. Trust me, there are still a lot of reasons to create a blog or a website. […]
The post How to Choose the Best Hosting Service for Your New Blog in 2019 appeared first on Location Rebel.
This post has been updated as of February 2019 for accuracy. It’s no secret that I think everyone should have a blog. Even in a world dominated by social media influencers, where so many people think blogging is dead. Trust me, there are still a lot of reasons to create a blog or a website. […]
The post How to Choose the Best Hosting Service for Your New Blog in 2019 appeared first on Location Rebel.
Quilt sleeping bags and sleeping bag quilts, as they're sometimes called, are best thought of as hoodless sleeping bags. They usually have full length zippers, so you can completely block external drafts from stealing away your body heat, you can open them partway and use them like a quilt, or all the way like a …
The post Quilt Sleeping Bags: Pros and Cons appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead the story.
Brenda Rae Schoolcraft – 27 February 2019
Imagine not being able to sleep at night, wondering if the monster was coming home drunk to terrorize the household. My father, sociopath, killer, bank robber ruined my childhood, and destroyed most things that came in contact with him. Almost killing my mother on multiple occasions. A fictionalized story of dysfunction and abuse on a ten plus scale. Chilling, riveting story of a family destroyed by the storm. This story will keep you wanting to know more. A dramatic, terror filled account of my childhood, Brenda Rae Schoolcraft. Enjoy your ride, on the runaway train.
What is the book about?
Alice Had a Palace is based on true life. Abuse and dysfunction on a ten plus scale. Homicidal violence and sexual scenes not for the underage reader, or the faint of heart.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing this book thirteen years ago, and it took me ten years to complete it.
Where did you get the idea from?
I just knew the book needed to be written, having a subject that is international and needed to help those that might be suffering the same abuse, or to warn others of the signs of impending danger.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, I struggled with my own emotions, on a roller coaster, crying a lot as I relived the horrors of my childhood.
What came easily?
I come by my writing skills naturally, as it is in my genes. My great grandfather from the 1800's, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft a famous writer in history books. He is my muse.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
My characters are all real, but a few names have been changed to protect the innocent.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Reading is my favorite pastime. I read everything I can get my hands on. A great book to me is like a precious jewel. Not an author follower, rather a great book enthusiast.
Do you have a target reader?
Those that will love Alice had a Palace, will be those that enjoy true life stories of families and dysfunction.
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead the story.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I don't outline my stories.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?
I get the story out as it comes, and edit after it is completed.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Writing in a coffee shop gets the creative juices flowing. The buzz of voices and the laughter and background noise of a coffee shop is wonderful for my writing.
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No, I haven't submitted my work to agents.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Deciding to go indie, just gives me more control of my work. I submitted to Tellwell Publishing here in British Columbia. They are great.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
My book cover, I created myself.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
A marketing plan is essential for your work to get distributed to the right places, to make it successful.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Yes, being an indie author works best these days, as getting a publisher is like winning a lottery. Once your book hits the world in a big way, they will come to you. AT this point you can call the shots. E-books are huge these days and you don't necessarily need a physical copy of your book.
Where did you grow up?
Growing up in Northern Ontario, eventually moving to British Columbia. I love the mountains and the coastal waters.
What would you like readers to know about you?
My writing has been described as stark, raw and powerful. I have lived my life outside of the box and have many life experiences to draw from for great writing and reading. As we speak I am on the home stretch with my next novel, Hunted Cracked and Broken, a psychological thriller, with a serial killer. An intimate look into the lives of street variety prostitutes, to the high class call girls, pimps, and strippers. A well-developed cast of characters, right down to my task force, the penny vagina task force, Speed and Samantha the main detectives on the tail of my killer. A copycat killer in the mix, and a few murderous pimps. Mystery and intrigue on every page, you will love it.
I have a way of hooking my reader right from the first page. I will only let you go, when the book is done, so be ready to be engaged and spellbound.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Alice Had a Palace from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead the story.
Brenda Rae Schoolcraft – 27 February 2019
Imagine not being able to sleep at night, wondering if the monster was coming home drunk to terrorize the household. My father, sociopath, killer, bank robber ruined my childhood, and destroyed most things that came in contact with him. Almost killing my mother on multiple occasions. A fictionalized story of dysfunction and abuse on a ten plus scale. Chilling, riveting story of a family destroyed by the storm. This story will keep you wanting to know more. A dramatic, terror filled account of my childhood, Brenda Rae Schoolcraft. Enjoy your ride, on the runaway train.
What is the book about?
Alice Had a Palace is based on true life. Abuse and dysfunction on a ten plus scale. Homicidal violence and sexual scenes not for the underage reader, or the faint of heart.
When did you start writing the book?
I started writing this book thirteen years ago, and it took me ten years to complete it.
Where did you get the idea from?
I just knew the book needed to be written, having a subject that is international and needed to help those that might be suffering the same abuse, or to warn others of the signs of impending danger.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, I struggled with my own emotions, on a roller coaster, crying a lot as I relived the horrors of my childhood.
What came easily?
I come by my writing skills naturally, as it is in my genes. My great grandfather from the 1800’s, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft a famous writer in history books. He is my muse.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
My characters are all real, but a few names have been changed to protect the innocent.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Reading is my favorite pastime. I read everything I can get my hands on. A great book to me is like a precious jewel. Not an author follower, rather a great book enthusiast.
Do you have a target reader?
Those that will love Alice had a Palace, will be those that enjoy true life stories of families and dysfunction.
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process is let the story tell itself. As soon as I start a story, it seems to take on its own life, and the characters lead the story.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I don’t outline my stories.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
I get the story out as it comes, and edit after it is completed.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Writing in a coffee shop gets the creative juices flowing. The buzz of voices and the laughter and background noise of a coffee shop is wonderful for my writing.
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No, I haven’t submitted my work to agents.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Deciding to go indie, just gives me more control of my work. I submitted to Tellwell Publishing here in British Columbia. They are great.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
My book cover, I created myself.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
A marketing plan is essential for your work to get distributed to the right places, to make it successful.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Yes, being an indie author works best these days, as getting a publisher is like winning a lottery. Once your book hits the world in a big way, they will come to you. AT this point you can call the shots. E-books are huge these days and you don’t necessarily need a physical copy of your book.
Where did you grow up?
Growing up in Northern Ontario, eventually moving to British Columbia. I love the mountains and the coastal waters.
What would you like readers to know about you?
My writing has been described as stark, raw and powerful. I have lived my life outside of the box and have many life experiences to draw from for great writing and reading. As we speak I am on the home stretch with my next novel, Hunted Cracked and Broken, a psychological thriller, with a serial killer. An intimate look into the lives of street variety prostitutes, to the high class call girls, pimps, and strippers. A well-developed cast of characters, right down to my task force, the penny vagina task force, Speed and Samantha the main detectives on the tail of my killer. A copycat killer in the mix, and a few murderous pimps. Mystery and intrigue on every page, you will love it.
I have a way of hooking my reader right from the first page. I will only let you go, when the book is done, so be ready to be engaged and spellbound.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Alice Had a Palace from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
The MSR Advance Pro 2 Tent is a two-person, wedge-style tent designed for professional mountaineers who are willing to sacrifice on tent comfort in exchange for light weight and a small footprint. Weighing 2 lbs 14 oz ounces, the single wall Advance Pro 2 includes a pair of Easton Syclone composite tent poles, connected by …
The post MSR Advance Pro 2 Tent Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
The Feather Friends Tanager 20 CFL Sleeping Bag is a hoodless, full length, and zipperless sleeping bag designed for thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and alpinists who want to minimize their gear weight and bulk. Weighing 18.6 oz, the Tanager is insulated with 12.6 oz of 950 fill power goose down and is best viewed as a specialized, …
The post Feathered Friends Tanager 20 Hoodless Sleeping Bag Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
Things I've been loving lately:
And I'm also loving that Shopbop are having a massive sale!
Use the code GOBIG19 to save up to 25% off, and best of all this includes sale stock too. I love checking through the sales to nab an extra bargain!
I pretty much only wear sneakers now but I feel like I need a cute pair of flats that feel more work appropriate. Do you prefer the red or the pink?
Above: I'm wearing dress by Shoshanna & sunglasses from Karen Walker.
The post Loving lately appeared first on Hair Romance.
Things I’ve been loving lately:
And I’m also loving that Shopbop are having a massive sale!
Use the code GOBIG19 to save up to 25% off, and best of all this includes sale stock too. I love checking through the sales to nab an extra bargain!
I pretty much only wear sneakers now but I feel like I need a cute pair of flats that feel more work appropriate. Do you prefer the red or the pink?
Above: I’m wearing dress by Shoshanna & sunglasses from Karen Walker.
The post Loving lately appeared first on Hair Romance.
The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a multi-day backpack with an adjustable length torso and hip belt, so you can get a personalized fit. Weighing 3 lbs, the Blaze 60 is optimized for hauling heavy and bulky gear, including the ability to carry a bear canister on top of the pack so it doesn't consume …
The post Granite Gear Blaze 60 Backpack Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
I had such a problem reading too much as a teen that now, when people ask, and they ask often, they all often receive completely different answers. I might leave one person thinking I read one set of books and another one thinking I read a completely different type.
James Bayers – 21 February 2019
Police Officer Lee Curtis has met his precise equal, in no way but genetics. In every other way, his genetic equal is not like him at all. In fact, his genetic equal is just the opposite. Especially the opposite side of the law. Oh, but how things change as Snake Slough ensues.
As it twists and turns like DNA, Snake Slough is brought to life.
What is the book about?
When two products of an unmonitored white-jacket cloak-and-dagger bureaucracy meet, a face-off between good and bad begins. Alex Carver and Lee Curtis are these products. Yeah that’s right, this is a story about two clones.
Their pasts are muddled with lies and their futures are subject to one clone being victorious over the other.
It’s a bit of a start to police officer Lee Curtis to find that he has a twin clone, but he was always aware of his own clone status. Alex Carver on the other hand is blown away. Not only has his life of crime been upset by the cop, but he’s also captivated by the idea that he has a brother he never knew about. That’s only the tip of the iceberg though. He soon finds himself exposed to a world of new possibilities, and he takes to it rather quickly.
When did you start writing the book?
I wrote most of the novella in 2013 and then then put a copyright on it because I’m particular about that kind of stuff. Then I put it down for several years. It wasn’t until 2018 that I competed it.
How long did it take you to write it?
Except for the five years between 2013 and 2018, it only took a few months. It’s not a lengthy novel.
Where did you get the idea from?
Well I was thinking about devils and angels. The idea of a book pitting good and bad against each other spawned easily out of that. In fact, the character, Paula, was originally named Angela. Like an Angel.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, finishing it.
What came easily?
The plot and setting came very easy. The outcome and setting for the outcome was a bit of a nightmare coming up with. I don’t chase those ghosts though. It turned out well and the angst and conflicting things going on in my little pea brain at the time are not apparent in the book.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
It is entirely fictitious.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Sure. So many from my youth that I couldn’t even possibly recount them all. I had such a problem reading too much as a teen that now, when people ask, and they ask often, they all often receive completely different answers. I might leave one person thinking I read one set of books and another one thinking I read a completely different type. This is not a thing I set out to do, just that I don’t have a set answer for this question. It depends on my mood.
At the time I came up with Snake Slough, I had just read several John Sanford novels. I can see his influence in the novella, but I don’t think it’s going to be obvious to everyone.
Do you have a target reader?
When I was young I used to write with the idea that I’d write cool books that the people I knew who didn’t read much would like. I wanted to get them hooked like I had been hooked. Snake Slough wasn’t written like this. Snake Slough was actually just something I enjoyed writing. It wasn’t my attempt to win anyone over.
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
Yes. Production. Production with as little of what I call “tippy tapping on the screen” as possible. In other words, I don’t like rearranging sentences or paragraphs. Once they are written, that’s it. Unless the story-line is off or some other plot problem arises, I don’t see a need to rearrange things to get them to sound or look a certain way.
This is my process. It’s not necessarily the best way, but it’s my process. So, if you want to write like I do, that’s how to do it.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes, I outline. I outline large portions of the story at a time. It’s like a leapfrog game I play with myself.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?
Wait until I finish.
Did you hire a professional editor? (May skip if being published by a small press rather than self-publishing)
No. Honestly, I don’t believe in them. That’s not to say that there aren’t people out there who could improve my book. Just that I don’t believe getting an editor would.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Never. I’m not a music person.
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
The idea of it was appealing to me. It wasn’t about it being the best way. Really it was a coin toss and since this seems like the future of novels this is what I did.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I did it myself. I scoured the web for pictures of Snake Slough and found the cover on shutterstock.com. it was perfect. I know it doesn’t reflect the plot, and that throws some people off, but it reflects the title and the title indirectly represents a lot of what the book was supposed to be about.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
My plan is to get a few people to read it. Hopefully some word of mouth will be generated.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
No, but I could probably come up with a few questions. If there is one way that is better than the others, I couldn’t tell you.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Snake Slough from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
I had such a problem reading too much as a teen that now, when people ask, and they ask often, they all often receive completely different answers. I might leave one person thinking I read one set of books and another one thinking I read a completely different type.
James Bayers – 21 February 2019
Police Officer Lee Curtis has met his precise equal, in no way but genetics. In every other way, his genetic equal is not like him at all. In fact, his genetic equal is just the opposite. Especially the opposite side of the law. Oh, but how things change as Snake Slough ensues.
As it twists and turns like DNA, Snake Slough is brought to life.
What is the book about?
When two products of an unmonitored white-jacket cloak-and-dagger bureaucracy meet, a face-off between good and bad begins. Alex Carver and Lee Curtis are these products. Yeah that's right, this is a story about two clones.
Their pasts are muddled with lies and their futures are subject to one clone being victorious over the other.
It's a bit of a start to police officer Lee Curtis to find that he has a twin clone, but he was always aware of his own clone status. Alex Carver on the other hand is blown away. Not only has his life of crime been upset by the cop, but he's also captivated by the idea that he has a brother he never knew about. That's only the tip of the iceberg though. He soon finds himself exposed to a world of new possibilities, and he takes to it rather quickly.
When did you start writing the book?
I wrote most of the novella in 2013 and then then put a copyright on it because I'm particular about that kind of stuff. Then I put it down for several years. It wasn't until 2018 that I competed it.
How long did it take you to write it?
Except for the five years between 2013 and 2018, it only took a few months. It's not a lengthy novel.
Where did you get the idea from?
Well I was thinking about devils and angels. The idea of a book pitting good and bad against each other spawned easily out of that. In fact, the character, Paula, was originally named Angela. Like an Angel.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Yes, finishing it.
What came easily?
The plot and setting came very easy. The outcome and setting for the outcome was a bit of a nightmare coming up with. I don't chase those ghosts though. It turned out well and the angst and conflicting things going on in my little pea brain at the time are not apparent in the book.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
It is entirely fictitious.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
Sure. So many from my youth that I couldn't even possibly recount them all. I had such a problem reading too much as a teen that now, when people ask, and they ask often, they all often receive completely different answers. I might leave one person thinking I read one set of books and another one thinking I read a completely different type. This is not a thing I set out to do, just that I don't have a set answer for this question. It depends on my mood.
At the time I came up with Snake Slough, I had just read several John Sanford novels. I can see his influence in the novella, but I don't think it's going to be obvious to everyone.
Do you have a target reader?
When I was young I used to write with the idea that I'd write cool books that the people I knew who didn't read much would like. I wanted to get them hooked like I had been hooked. Snake Slough wasn't written like this. Snake Slough was actually just something I enjoyed writing. It wasn't my attempt to win anyone over.
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
Yes. Production. Production with as little of what I call "tippy tapping on the screen" as possible. In other words, I don't like rearranging sentences or paragraphs. Once they are written, that's it. Unless the story-line is off or some other plot problem arises, I don't see a need to rearrange things to get them to sound or look a certain way.
This is my process. It's not necessarily the best way, but it's my process. So, if you want to write like I do, that's how to do it.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
Yes, I outline. I outline large portions of the story at a time. It's like a leapfrog game I play with myself.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?
Wait until I finish.
Did you hire a professional editor? (May skip if being published by a small press rather than self-publishing)
No. Honestly, I don't believe in them. That's not to say that there aren't people out there who could improve my book. Just that I don't believe getting an editor would.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
Never. I'm not a music person.
Did you submit your work to Agents?
No.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
The idea of it was appealing to me. It wasn't about it being the best way. Really it was a coin toss and since this seems like the future of novels this is what I did.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I did it myself. I scoured the web for pictures of Snake Slough and found the cover on shutterstock.com. it was perfect. I know it doesn't reflect the plot, and that throws some people off, but it reflects the title and the title indirectly represents a lot of what the book was supposed to be about.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
My plan is to get a few people to read it. Hopefully some word of mouth will be generated.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
No, but I could probably come up with a few questions. If there is one way that is better than the others, I couldn't tell you.
End of Interview:
Get your copy of Snake Slough from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
The MassDrop x Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt is a 20 degree ultralight backpacking quilt that weighs 22.1 oz. It's insulated with 14.5 oz of 800 fill power down, 6 feet in length, with a 54″ width at the head tapering down to 40″ in the footbox. The Revelation 20 comes with elastic straps to attach …
The post Raffle: Enter for a Chance to Win a MassDrop x Enlightened Equipment Revelation 20 Backpacking Quilt appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
Blog vs. Vlog. It's an interesting time to be a content creator. When I started blogging ten years ago, that was the primary way that people consumed independent content – through blogs. I remember the days of hitting refresh over and over while at my office waiting for my favorite writers to post their […]
The post Blog vs Vlog: Where Should You Create Content in 2019? appeared first on Location Rebel.
Blog vs. Vlog. It’s an interesting time to be a content creator. When I started blogging ten years ago, that was the primary way that people consumed independent content – through blogs. I remember the days of hitting refresh over and over while at my office waiting for my favorite writers to post their […]
The post Blog vs Vlog: Where Should You Create Content in 2019? appeared first on Location Rebel.
The Ambient Weather WM-2 is a handheld wind and weather meter that measures wind speed, temperature, wind chill, wind gust, and something called the Beaufort Scale, which is a way to estimate wind speed based on observable phenomena. A wind meter can be a handy weather forecasting and safety tool for hikers to carry, particularly in …
The post Ambient Weather WM-2 Handheld Windspeed Meter Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
The best ultralight backpacks range from about 40 liters up to 60 liters in volume and weigh 1-3 pounds. They're intended for carrying loads between 15 and 35 pounds. What makes an ultralight backpack great? It fits you, has easy to use external pockets, and works well with your backpacking gear choices.
Some ultralight backpack have internal frames, some come with frame stays, and others are frameless. Generally speaking you want more "frame" for heavier loads, but this can be a matter of personal preference. Most ultralight backpacks are unisex, although there are a few exceptions. They also tend to have fixed torso lengths and hip belt lengths. Packs made with Dyneema Composite Fabrics are more expensive, but don't age well, suffering UV and abrasion damage. Roll top packs are the norm, but some come with optional lids.
The most important factor when choosing a UL pack is fit. Keep trying ones on until you get a torso length and hip-belt that fits you perfectly. Return policies and warrantees matter. Stick close to manufacturers that guarantee their products and want you to have the best experience possible.
| Make / Model | Gender | Volume | Materials | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Osprey Exos 58 | M | F | 58L | Nylon | 2 lbs 10 oz | $220 |
| ULA Circuit | Unisex* | 68L | Nylon | 2 lbs 9 oz | $235 |
| Granite Gear Crown 2 60 | M | F | 60L | Nylon | 2 lbs 5 oz | $200 |
| Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 | Unisex | 60L | Nylon | 1 lb 14.5 oz | $270 |
| Hyperlite Mountain Gear SW 3400 | Unisex | 60L | DCF | 2 lb 3 oz | $345 |
| Zpacks Arc Blast 55L | Unisex | 55L | DCF | 1 lb 5 oz | $325 |
| Zpacks Arc Haul 62L | Unisex | 62L | DCF | 1 lb 8 oz | $299 |
| Gossamer Gear Gorilla 40 | Unisex | 40L | Nylon | 1 lb 14.5 oz | $260 |
| ULA Ohm 2.0 | Unisex* | 63L | Nylon | 2 lbs 2.5 oz | $210 |
| Gossamer Gear Kumo 36 | Unisex | 36L | Nylon | 1 lb 5 oz | $165 |
| *S Shoulder Strap Option |
Check out the latest price at:
ULA Equipment
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Gossamer Gear
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REI | Hyperlite Mountain Gear
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Zpacks.com
Check out the latest price at:
Zpacks.com
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Gossamer Gear
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ULA Equipment
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REI Outlet | Sierra Trading Post | Steep & Cheep
How do we know what the top 10 best ultralight backpacks are? We survey our large readership to ask. In this case, we asked 2500 backpackers what three-season packs they preferred and recommended. If you'd like to participate in our surveys, be on the look up for the gear raffles we run every few weeks on SectionHiker, where we give survey participants a chance to win. Or sign up to the weekly, award-winning SectionHiker newsletter, so you never miss out on an opportunity to participate. We hate spam, so we'll never share your email with anyone else and you can unsubscribe at any time.
The post 10 Best Ultralight Backpacks of 2019 appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
So, you want to learn how to start a blog, huh? It's no secret that I think the absolute best way to get started building a business online is to start a blog. You'll hear many people make arguments like "a blog isn't a business" or "you don't need a blog to have a successful […]
The post How to Start a Blog in 2019 (Step by Step Guide) appeared first on Location Rebel.
So, you want to learn how to start a blog, huh? It’s no secret that I think the absolute best way to get started building a business online is to start a blog. You’ll hear many people make arguments like “a blog isn’t a business” or “you don’t need a blog to have a successful […]
The post How to Start a Blog in 2019 (Step by Step Guide) appeared first on Location Rebel.
Here at Location Rebel we’ve spent nearly the last decade helping people build “bridge businesses”. Meaning, we help you build the type of business that is going to get you out of your job, making some money on your own, and giving you the freedom and flexibility to pursue the things you really want to do in […]
The post How to Find a Mentor (And Why It’s So Important You Do) appeared first on Location Rebel.
Here at Location Rebel we've spent nearly the last decade helping people build "bridge businesses". Meaning, we help you build the type of business that is going to get you out of your job, making some money on your own, and giving you the freedom and flexibility to pursue the things you really want to do in […]
The post How to Find a Mentor (And Why It's So Important You Do) appeared first on Location Rebel.
"You know, thirty-below isn't that bad if you're dressed properly", said Eliot, as we stood in the sun by the South Kinsman Mountain summit cairn. We were suited up in full above-treeline regalia including balaclava, facemasks, and heavy gloves. It was so cold, that I was even wearing long underwear, something that I almost never do on winter hikes.
Our objective for this hike was North Kinsman and South Kinsman, two 4000 footers overlooking Franconia Notch. It's a wonderfully scenic hike in fine weather, with views of Franconia Ridge on the other side of the pass. Our route approached the peaks from the east, up to the Lonesome Lake Hut, before climbing to Kinsman Pond, North Kinsman, and the South Kinsman. The total distance for our route was 10 miles, with 3,900 feet of elevation gain.
We'd been tracking the weather forecast all week for this hike and the weather was looking pretty harsh with subzero temperatures (fahrenheit, not wimpy celsius) and sustained winds between 45-55 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph. Forty mile per hour winds will blow you off your feet, but it's worse in winter, because you have to worry about frostbite on top of it. That means you need to wear goggles and full face protection whenever you leave the protection of trees, above-treeline.
The weather forecast was so sketchy that we'd discussed some alternate hikes up nearby 4000 footers with less exposure. But we decided to go ahead with the original Kinsman route because I've climbed both peaks in winter before and knew first-hand that the amount of actual exposure was quite limited. I also knew that we'd decide to turn around if conditions proved too dangerous, because we'd talked about it before we started hiking,
This was a 4 season leadership qualification hike for Eliot, who's currently a 3 season Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) trip leader. That 4 season qualification takes a lot of training and dedication to attain, especially since it's for leading winter trips anywhere in New England, including the White Mountains. The most important part of the training qualification process is peer mentoring and peer review, although existing 3 season leaders are pretty well seasoned by the time they start the 4 season qualification process. I was ostensibly mentoring Eliot on this hike, but we were working closely together as equals on participant qualification, gear needs, routing decisions, weather forecasting, and all of the minutiae required to pull off a group hike in winter. Collaborating like this, with a peer, is probably the thing that I like the best about being an AMC leader.
The parking lot at the base of the Lonesome Lake Trail hadn't been cleared of snow, so we met at the Mt Lafayette / Mt Lincoln Trailhead on the other side of the interstate. That parking lot is usually overflowing in summer but there were very few cars there that morning because of the cold. I ran into some old friends who were also leading a hike up the Kinsmans that day, after deciding that hiking a Franconia Ridge Loop (much more exposure) was simply too dangerous with the wind forecast.
We crossed the interstate and started climbing the Lonesome Lake Trail, which climbs steeply uphill. I occasionally suffer from cold induced asthma, which kicks in at about 0F, and I was huffing and puffing on this climb. We made it up the Lonesome Lake which was frozen over, before proceeding to the AMC's Lonesome Lake Hut for short break. The cabin is open in winter and you can sleep overnight in the unheated bunkrooms there for a small fee. There's a combination common room / kitchen out front, with a wood stove, but it's used sparingly, often just a few hours per day.
We stopped in and I took two puffs on my inhaler, which quickly opened up my airways. We drank some water and ate a snack, before heading back outside to hike up the Fishin Jimmy Trail towards Kinsman Pond. This section of trail was frozen and well consolidated, so we were able to climb it using microspikes alone. It was steep though and we knew full crampons would be necessary for a safe descent.
After a quick lunch stop at the junction with the Kinsman Trail, which climbs to the Kinsman Ridge Trail from the east, we hiked up to the North Kinsman viewpoint, just below the summit. This is a large rock ledge that juts out from North Kinsman. It has a 270 degree view of Mt Cannon and entire Franconia Ridge including Mts Liberty and Mt Flume at the south end. There was no wind on the ledge, because it was blowing from the west and the North Kinsman summit blocked the wind.
The distance from North Kinsman to South Kinsman is 0.9 miles and protected by short stubby trees for most of the way. First, you drop into a col (the dip between two mountain summits) before climbing back up on the other side. This section of the trip went by quickly and we were soon standing at the point where the trees gave way to the summit area which was open rock ledge covered with hard ice. We put on full face protection, including balaclavas with face masks, and ski goggles and set out for the final summit push.
I can't say that I enjoy wearing a face mask and goggles. As a glasses wearer, there's always the risk of the ski goggle lenses fogging up. They also block most of my peripheral vision, so I can't see my feet unless I turn my head to look down at them. On this hike, I was using a new pair of Smith Knowledge Turbo Fan Ski Goggles that have a built-in exhaust fan, which worked well. The power pack wires on my last pair broke, but Smith, to their credit, offered me a free pair under their lifetime warranty. At $180/pair, that warranty is gold.
The short walk to the summit cairn was uneventful and we basked in the warm sun, fully suited up. We were surprised that the wind wasn't howling on South Kinsman because it's not as protected as North Kinsman. After admiring the view and picking out the peaks we could see in Vermont from the summit, we hightailed it back to North Kinsman and back down to the Lonesome Lake hut. Full crampons were required for that descent and I was glad that we'd required them for our hike participants.
We didn't stop at the hut on the way down and kept on going across the frozen Lonesome Lake lake bed, all the while admiring the view of Franconia Ridge on the other side of Franconia Notch. It'd been a wicked cold day, but the views had been great, and the time has passed too quickly with good company.
Here's a look out our route:
North and South KinsmanThe post Above Treeline Winter Hike to North and South Kinsman Mountains appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
It started with a flash fiction piece I wrote about a group of kitchen slaves plotting to poison their captors so they can escape. Even though it had taken me maybe ten minutes to write that story, it crawled under my skin and stayed. Then I read a couple of Malcolm Nance books positing that Russia is behind a calculated cyber-warfare and disinformation campaign to take down democracy in Europe and America. The “what if” part of my brain started churning.
Laurie Boris – 15 February 2019
If an army marches on its stomach, can a cook find a way to win the war?
It’s 2049. In an America torn apart by a long-predicted civil war, Valerie Kipplander—daughter of the assassinated secretary of state—is thrown in jail. When the regime discovers this daughter of privilege is also a talented culinary student, she’s forced into service in the kitchen of a Russian general whose troops occupy New York.
The general’s mansion proves a prison of a different sort. The head chef has a mysterious past, the Russians have a more insidious agenda than what they’ve promised, the resistance wants her on their side, and one of the guards wants her dead.
Valerie knows she must take a stand. The risks are monumental, the choices few. But how long can she serve the men bent on destroying her beloved country?
What is the book about?
A culinary student is forced to work in the kitchen of the Russian general whose army occupies an America torn apart by a second civil war. Loyalties are uncertain and resistance could be deadly. Her passion for cooking is something of a comfort, but how long can she bear hiding behind the relative safety of her pots and pans while Russia’s plan for her country grows more nefarious?
When did you start writing the book?
I began writing a few key scenes in early 2016, starting with the head chef’s past, most of which got cut from the final novel. Hey, it happens.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took about three years from start to finish, longer than most of my other books. I put it down to work on other projects; I rewrote it a couple of times based on some really good feedback that helped me expand the scope of the story.
Where did you get the idea from?
A few concepts blended together. It started with a flash fiction piece I wrote about a group of kitchen slaves plotting to poison their captors so they can escape. Even though it had taken me maybe ten minutes to write that story, it crawled under my skin and stayed. Then I read a couple of Malcolm Nance books positing that Russia is behind a calculated cyber-warfare and disinformation campaign to take down democracy in Europe and America. The “what if” part of my brain started churning. What if Russia were successful? What if the technology we’d become so dependent on could no longer be trusted, or was even available? What would an American resistance look like? And…off I went.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Some of the world-building was a challenge. I had to imagine what the world would/could be like in thirty years, in a complicated geopolitical landscape. How to show what was going on outside of the general’s mansion without totally getting lost there. I was walking a tightrope of suspended disbelief. Too much focus on details would detract from the human element of the story. Too little would leave the characters ungrounded. I think I hit the balance right.
What came easily?
The bond Valerie had with her father, and her memories of him…that came easily. How much she loved him and worried about him; how conflicted she became when she grew old enough to understand that he was a flawed, complicated man who had to make difficult decisions under immense pressure. And the food. I love writing about food. It’s a huge part of the story—food as comfort, for those who cook as well, especially in wartime.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
I may have borrowed a trait or two, from people I’ve met and from myself, but the characters are mostly fictitious. There is no truth to the rumor that the Austrian character came from a certain international company where I was formerly employed.
Do you have a target reader for this book?
First I began writing it for myself, as a way to explore the questions in my head. Then, as I started talking with friends and neighbors about what I was working on, and as they got more excited about it, I had more of a target reader in mind: a reader who not only wants entertainment but something to think about afterward. Maybe one who would like to read a cautionary tale from a mainly female perspective about war, and pride, and patriotism. And food, of course.
How was writing this book different from what you’d experienced writing previous books?
I’ve never written a dystopian story before. I’ve never really done anything political. But I felt driven to write this story. At the time, it was great therapy for me.
What new things did you learn about writing, publishing, and/or yourself while writing and preparing this book for publication?
I had another reminder of how dependent we are on technology…and how easy it would be to disable it. Also, I had some new learning curves to tackle while publishing the book. I tried new software and a new way of printing. I also learned that while I never, ever want to cook some of the things that Valerie had to (woodchuck stew, anyone?), I’m stronger than I thought and I can tolerate more hardships than I believed I could. And that’s good for anyone to have in their pocket.
End of Interview:
For more from Laurie, visit her website, follow her on Twitter, and like her Facebook page.
Get your copy of The Kitchen Brigade from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
It started with a flash fiction piece I wrote about a group of kitchen slaves plotting to poison their captors so they can escape. Even though it had taken me maybe ten minutes to write that story, it crawled under my skin and stayed. Then I read a couple of Malcolm Nance books positing that Russia is behind a calculated cyber-warfare and disinformation campaign to take down democracy in Europe and America. The "what if" part of my brain started churning.
Laurie Boris – 15 February 2019
If an army marches on its stomach, can a cook find a way to win the war?
It's 2049. In an America torn apart by a long-predicted civil war, Valerie Kipplander—daughter of the assassinated secretary of state—is thrown in jail. When the regime discovers this daughter of privilege is also a talented culinary student, she's forced into service in the kitchen of a Russian general whose troops occupy New York.
The general's mansion proves a prison of a different sort. The head chef has a mysterious past, the Russians have a more insidious agenda than what they've promised, the resistance wants her on their side, and one of the guards wants her dead.
Valerie knows she must take a stand. The risks are monumental, the choices few. But how long can she serve the men bent on destroying her beloved country?
What is the book about?
A culinary student is forced to work in the kitchen of the Russian general whose army occupies an America torn apart by a second civil war. Loyalties are uncertain and resistance could be deadly. Her passion for cooking is something of a comfort, but how long can she bear hiding behind the relative safety of her pots and pans while Russia's plan for her country grows more nefarious?
When did you start writing the book?
I began writing a few key scenes in early 2016, starting with the head chef's past, most of which got cut from the final novel. Hey, it happens.
How long did it take you to write it?
It took about three years from start to finish, longer than most of my other books. I put it down to work on other projects; I rewrote it a couple of times based on some really good feedback that helped me expand the scope of the story.
Where did you get the idea from?
A few concepts blended together. It started with a flash fiction piece I wrote about a group of kitchen slaves plotting to poison their captors so they can escape. Even though it had taken me maybe ten minutes to write that story, it crawled under my skin and stayed. Then I read a couple of Malcolm Nance books positing that Russia is behind a calculated cyber-warfare and disinformation campaign to take down democracy in Europe and America. The "what if" part of my brain started churning. What if Russia were successful? What if the technology we'd become so dependent on could no longer be trusted, or was even available? What would an American resistance look like? And…off I went.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
Some of the world-building was a challenge. I had to imagine what the world would/could be like in thirty years, in a complicated geopolitical landscape. How to show what was going on outside of the general's mansion without totally getting lost there. I was walking a tightrope of suspended disbelief. Too much focus on details would detract from the human element of the story. Too little would leave the characters ungrounded. I think I hit the balance right.
What came easily?
The bond Valerie had with her father, and her memories of him…that came easily. How much she loved him and worried about him; how conflicted she became when she grew old enough to understand that he was a flawed, complicated man who had to make difficult decisions under immense pressure. And the food. I love writing about food. It's a huge part of the story—food as comfort, for those who cook as well, especially in wartime.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
I may have borrowed a trait or two, from people I've met and from myself, but the characters are mostly fictitious. There is no truth to the rumor that the Austrian character came from a certain international company where I was formerly employed.
Do you have a target reader for this book?
First I began writing it for myself, as a way to explore the questions in my head. Then, as I started talking with friends and neighbors about what I was working on, and as they got more excited about it, I had more of a target reader in mind: a reader who not only wants entertainment but something to think about afterward. Maybe one who would like to read a cautionary tale from a mainly female perspective about war, and pride, and patriotism. And food, of course.
How was writing this book different from what you'd experienced writing previous books?
I've never written a dystopian story before. I've never really done anything political. But I felt driven to write this story. At the time, it was great therapy for me.
What new things did you learn about writing, publishing, and/or yourself while writing and preparing this book for publication?
I had another reminder of how dependent we are on technology…and how easy it would be to disable it. Also, I had some new learning curves to tackle while publishing the book. I tried new software and a new way of printing. I also learned that while I never, ever want to cook some of the things that Valerie had to (woodchuck stew, anyone?), I'm stronger than I thought and I can tolerate more hardships than I believed I could. And that's good for anyone to have in their pocket.
End of Interview:
For more from Laurie, visit her website, follow her on Twitter, and like her Facebook page.
Get your copy of The Kitchen Brigade from Amazon US or Amazon UK.
Icebreaker's 200 Oasis Legless base layer bottoms are a 100% Merino Capri-length pant. The below-the-knee design reduces bulk around your lower legs. They feature a brushed elastic waistband and flatlock seams for comfort. The Merino wool offers great warmth, breathability and odor resistance. The Oasis is made of light 200 weight fabric. It is machine washable, but do not use fabric softeners, and do not machine dry it.
I tend to run hot when hiking. It takes a very cold day for me to even consider wearing a bottom base layer under my winter softshell pants. I find that with the softshell pants plus gaiters and heavy wool socks below the knee, an additional base layer there is really unnecessary for me. People new to winter hiking often underestimate how warm they'll be and tend to overdress. It's best to experiment with different layering schemes to better understand your metabolism and how different weather conditions, such as cold wind, can affect your layering system.
For me, my butt and thighs only get cold on really frigid or windy days. To stay warmer, I experimented with a couple of different options to insulate that portion of my body in an unobtrusive and inexpensive way as possible. At first, I tried cutting off some old polypro long johns below the knee, but they wouldn't stay in place and had a tendency to ride up above the knee. I thought of trying some of my gym clothes, but I know how sweaty those can get. A little bit of searching last year led me to the Icebreaker Capri length bottom base layers. I already owned some Merino wool full-length long johns and plenty of shirts, so another Merino base layer seemed like a natural fit.
Icebreaker has several products in this category. The 200 Oasis Legless retails for $80. They also make the ultralight 175 Everyday Legless for $60, which is also 100% Merino wool.
My experience with the 200 Oasis has been good so far. They give me a little extra warmth where I need it on really cold days. I've worn them a couple of dozen times, and so far, they don't seem to show any failures or signs of wear or shrinkage. At the time I purchased them, I took the advice from some online reviews and sized up to a medium. I was glad I did. Although I would take a small in most clothing items like this, the medium in the Oasis was a perfect fit. They hold their shape well while worn despite the lack of Lycra. Give them a try, especially if you generate a lot of heat in your calves and tend to sweat there on winter hikes.
Disclosure: The author purchased this item.
Editor's note: Help support this site by making your next gear purchase through one of the links above. Click a link, buy what you need, and the seller will contribute a portion of the purchase price to support SectionHiker's unsponsored gear reviews, articles, and hiking guides.The post Icebreaker 200 Oasis Legless Baselayer Review appeared first on Section Hikers Backpacking Blog.
