Patriot Backpack – the little Jeep gets a roof rack

The spring time brings a lot of great things.  Greener trees, blossoming flowers, warm weather, topless Jeeps, and of course… the REI annual member dividend.  Last year, I wrote about the Half Dome tent that I purchased with my yearly bonus from my favorite adventure equipment store – this year, the new Patriot got a complete roof rack system and a rack for the bike. Continue reading

my brand new (to me) bike

I, regretfully, haven’t owned a ride-able bicycle in many years.  When my interest in mountain biking began growing recently; I started talking to friends (who ride often) to get their insight on bike types, brands, and where I should begin; one of them made my decision quite simple, and traded me this beauty for a 6 pack of beer. Continue reading

Half Dome II – a review

Sleeping outside is like sleeping in a 5 million star hotel – granted you have a good tent (and a clear night of course.)

I headed to REI a few weeks ago after receiving my 2010 dividend and a sweet 20% off any item coupon. I had no idea what I was going to buy… but knew I would find something awesome in that store, as I usually do. Continue reading