tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60082654026340589392024-02-07T05:55:44.159+00:00A Wanderers thoughtsA place to air the opinions of the voices in my head.ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-30402987381090641582020-05-05T23:13:00.000+01:002020-05-05T23:13:49.514+01:00Lock down in the UK, why?On March 23rd the UK government issued a simple instruction: <b> </b><br />
<h3>
<b>"Stay home, Protect the NHS, Save Lives" </b></h3>
The reason for this was to slow down spread of the Covid-19 virus currently ravaging the world and the UK. The symptoms range from none at all to full on respiratory failure needing to be placed on a ventilator.<br />
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About 1 in 6 patients need to be placed on a ventilator. A ventilators job is to breath for the victim (I'm gonna say victim as the patient certainly didn't volunteer for this), from just providing an oxygen rich environment or actually breathing for the victim (after the muscles used for breathing have been disabled temporarily)<br />
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The main point of the protect the NHS is that <u>ventilators are a finite resource</u>. If demand exceeds the supply, more people would die. At present enough capacity is available as the spread has been slowed by people staying at home and only venturing out for essential supplies or exercise. <br />
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Its been over six weeks since the UK government issued this instruction (8 weeks for myself), its becoming normal to be inside and not venturing out unless necessary. On a daily basis people watch the government briefings to see how we are progressing in this fight, how many people have sadly died and if we are winning this battle.<br />
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<h3>
The last time the UK had to deal with such a large threat</h3>
OK lets do a little wild comparison to the last time this country had to deal a very large threat.(pinch of salt) <br />
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<b>World War 2</b>. This lasted <b>6 years with reduced food</b>, rationing and the <b>threat of being bombed.</b> Your loved ones went to serve, fight and die to defend the England and the other neighbouring countries. These were harsher times, you could get work in factories making supplies for the war efforts. You had restriction on going out at night in the cities for fear of being bombed.<br />
But the British coped, we engaged our stiff upper lips and dug in for the long haul.<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>6 years!!</b></span><br />
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Today the threat is an airborne virus, the people of England and to an extent the world are being <u><b>asked to serve </b></u>by simply<u><b> staying at home</b></u>. Only going out for the essentials (food) and exercise. I myself serve my country by following these instructions, and thereby protecting the National Health Service and other people in my community. It's been 8 weeks now,<b> YES I am getting tired of it</b>, I miss the great outdoors, riding my motorcycles and hugging my friends and family.... but this is a price I will <b>gladly pay</b> if it helps to save lives and for the UK to recover faster. Short term pain. <br />
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<h3>
Good things have come from this.</h3>
Its not all doom and gloom. This crisis has brought out the best in some people, communities groups are forming everywhere looking out for one another, things such as food deliveries or even the simple act of just checking in with a neighbour. Video chat has taken off nudging families into more futuristic communications more than ever before. I myself actually see my mother more over WhatsApp video chat than when I normally go and visit her.<br />
<br />Fundraising for NHS charities to help the less fortunate cope in these times, one of the most famous examples is <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-beds-bucks-herts-52498156" target="_blank">Captain Tom</a> who raised £33 million for charity. Amazing.<br />
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From Nurses, Doctors, carers and cleaners all the way to dustmen all providing essential much needed services are now being recognised as the heros, they are risking their lives by not staying at home. Every Thursday at 8pm the UK clap and bang pans making noise to signal our thanks to these people who put themselves at risk. These people should be paid more rather than just receiving claps and appreciation. (paled in comparison to over paid footballers.... sadly). A great example is how the US love their servicemen in the military, we should be the same with our <b>NHS / health care staff and key workers</b>. <b>Thank you for your service.</b><br />
<b> </b><br />
<h3>
Now a warning... </h3>
The 'R' value (ratio of how many people would get infected from one person) is currently below 1, it started at 3, so we are seeing results. BUT <b>we must not be complacent, we must not drop our guard.</b> Yes it is getting better because we have followed the very simple instruction to stay at home. If people get lax and decide we can return to normal and go out, <u><b>we are in danger of generating a 2nd wave of infection</b></u> overwhelming the NHS. <br />
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Let me illustrate this with this little image:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk2-KpYylK1aNRE5Tdk2rje5-VbyEuGXzKb6gmooLVrZRuzTZAZLNu8N_R6TsUJBiolwFu-fmcA8-0VE42Yo6NEj1-i8qwlMefyX0KZcSrbpHPPjMRYk90AnDKeMSlT57Hak5o6mspDXJ/s1600/fallacy_COVID_parachute-2-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk2-KpYylK1aNRE5Tdk2rje5-VbyEuGXzKb6gmooLVrZRuzTZAZLNu8N_R6TsUJBiolwFu-fmcA8-0VE42Yo6NEj1-i8qwlMefyX0KZcSrbpHPPjMRYk90AnDKeMSlT57Hak5o6mspDXJ/s320/fallacy_COVID_parachute-2-1024x1024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am seeing more and more people outside, people are relaxing and this worries me greatly. The risk is increasing of worsening this situation. Please stay at home.<br />
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<h3>
Final thoughts?</h3>
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I'm proudly doing my duty to my country. I am staying in, protecting the NHS, and saving lives.<br />
I'm helping people in my community offering help if they need it.<br />
<br />
What are you doing?<br />
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Be safe. <br />ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-34119188849716468752011-10-29T20:25:00.000+01:002011-10-29T20:25:47.526+01:00Repairing a Therm-a-rest with the Universal repair kitHave a Therm-a-rest with a hole in it, bought a kit then read the instructions... not so clear I thought, so I Googled it. After reading a couple of articles I think I got the gest of how to do it. So for your reference I thought I'd write up my way of doing it, based on what I have read.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6dppHx5Qq0RrW2T7X12kS6FxEuKedYBFfhP16k1sGbtwQ4iyRuEup8ji7g2FGhExe-lvdAtcWpp2l4Hrt-d_ztK99oMM-oZox6YycbFHRxPtVlmibD3O5wm83jHmzgxlOW7G-xfU5VaC/s1600/IMG_20111029_183302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW6dppHx5Qq0RrW2T7X12kS6FxEuKedYBFfhP16k1sGbtwQ4iyRuEup8ji7g2FGhExe-lvdAtcWpp2l4Hrt-d_ztK99oMM-oZox6YycbFHRxPtVlmibD3O5wm83jHmzgxlOW7G-xfU5VaC/s320/IMG_20111029_183302.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<b>Finding the Hole.</b><br />
Easy one this, you will just need a bath with enough water in to partially submerge the mat.<br />
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Inflate the mat to its fullest, submerge a section, give it a good squeeze and then look for bubbles.<br />
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Once you find bubbles you've found your hole make note of it and continue inspecting the remainder of the mat in case there is more than one hole!<br />
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When you are satisfied you have all the hole marked or noted (I don't like the idea of marking with a pen like some articles suggest) let your mat dry properly ready for the next stage. Have a cup of tea while your waiting.<br />
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<b>Cleaning the Damaged Area</b><br />
Use the alcohol moisty wipe to clean the area thoroughly to remove and oil, or dirt that may impede the glue/patch from sticking effectively.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8BGypmjH1mvx9rTUMc6pERLn7gM1jqDswG3AcvnxiHArHM6FgfeByDB-T7ugYzogDzvkV8GTiNAb04JRt5I8-LuKcOnX8RCHtqCn5yZ3JjuCn6inXeaOz877H1_8OIfVcswduI5VqC5Mu/s1600/IMG_20111029_183355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8BGypmjH1mvx9rTUMc6pERLn7gM1jqDswG3AcvnxiHArHM6FgfeByDB-T7ugYzogDzvkV8GTiNAb04JRt5I8-LuKcOnX8RCHtqCn5yZ3JjuCn6inXeaOz877H1_8OIfVcswduI5VqC5Mu/s320/IMG_20111029_183355.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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After you have cleaned a generous amount of mat allow the area to dry.<br />
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<b>Apply Glue dot.</b><br />
I've cut one of the glue dots and heated it my hands, seem to make it more malleable?<br />
Peel off one side of the glue dot backing (the one with the writing) and then applied the glue dot over the small hole and pressed firmly down.<br />
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<br />
Leave to sit for a short while then peel off the backing to leave the glue as below.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzD8iqvKEeVySzB4PYl2MxBsayJquNEp-2ruV55Gjzev3Qm_bKolxV-Lsl5eTcAyg4Ry2nvhj9Ex2HwoPYC23W-BjfY0QrnJsu5ie_-58XLUzw1dN2Fftmj2Zec2Kw04Fxy1zJiLAgZAnK/s1600/IMG_20111029_185601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzD8iqvKEeVySzB4PYl2MxBsayJquNEp-2ruV55Gjzev3Qm_bKolxV-Lsl5eTcAyg4Ry2nvhj9Ex2HwoPYC23W-BjfY0QrnJsu5ie_-58XLUzw1dN2Fftmj2Zec2Kw04Fxy1zJiLAgZAnK/s320/IMG_20111029_185601.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<b>Apply patch</b><br />
Carefully cut one of the material patches supplied so that it is 50% larger than the glue area. I used the thin one as the mat is a light weight version. And ... er.... Cutting Fu not so strong with this one....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPHSYvGXyXsBVd8YHWthFIE3WS3hhv0_dXpDXhYmrd1JX6gX5WgCkg0bBa-LkoyeMGZavdYzmdV0DuRX5GwuKay-mSelY142HH8zLeSS-9g9uU_SZ4L1zVIqt6BEhuqSpDiLTTUFyoYb7/s1600/IMG_20111029_185657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPHSYvGXyXsBVd8YHWthFIE3WS3hhv0_dXpDXhYmrd1JX6gX5WgCkg0bBa-LkoyeMGZavdYzmdV0DuRX5GwuKay-mSelY142HH8zLeSS-9g9uU_SZ4L1zVIqt6BEhuqSpDiLTTUFyoYb7/s320/IMG_20111029_185657.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
So done, leave it for few hours before using. <br />
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So there you go, my interpretation of how to repair a Thermarest.<br />
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<br />
Hope this helped some people.<br />
<br />
ferrol.<br />
<br />
Reference sites<br />
http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/gear-features/repair-your-therm-a-rest/103.html<br />
http://www.ehow.com/way_5932280_way-repair-thermarest-pad.htmlferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-59137501051124016822011-10-02T19:22:00.004+01:002011-10-03T22:03:02.596+01:00Birthday tradition. Mermaids Pool, Peak District<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="156"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]--> <p>Bit of a tradition around this time of year, have new toys to play with and idea's to try going as light as possible. Lightest sleeping bag, favourite stove left at home in favour of a lighter alcohol based one.<br /></p><p>Write up of Mermaid Pool Kinder solo session. No photos am afraid but you'll find out why later.</p><p><br /></p><p>Morning drive started out ok, the roads were pleasant, excitement growing as I hit Snake pass. Lots if cars broke the road up with a few bikers having their fun. I was envious slightly, but I've already done snake pass so that takes a little off. Having completely failed to remember the Scotch eggs and the little treat I bought for myself I made a note to stock up on lunch and treats when I hit Hayfield. </p> <p>The turning off was just as I remember it, I was worried I'd miss it and have to turn round somewhere. But I found it fine, just as I remember it. Just needed to look out for a cafe now. Which turns out was right around the corner.</p> <p>A quid lighter with treat well wrpped up in its paper bag I head on down the road to find parking. </p> <p>Hayfield is a little village which houses a caravan and camping club site. Additional parking and toilet available via National Trust car park and ...well toilets. Its quite popular as it’s a gateway to Kinder waterfall when it’s a little more flowing. Winter time sees climbers with axes and crampons ascending it. The national trust car park now sports a burger van for anyone wanting to stock up on missed breakfasts dues to early morning starts.</p> <p>Mental note: renew membership.</p> <p>Grabbing my pack out of the car is great as it's lighter than my normal backpack weight so I'm quietly smug about it.<br /></p><p>The beginning of this walk always gets me doubting if I'm heading the correct way or not. Head straight towards the reservoir and then go right at the main gate. Simple enough, wonder if I’ll remember it next time? There are a fair few walkers young and old about, most friendly enough returning hello's, others seemingly not sure what to do. These are the people new to walking, we outdoor types tend to be a friendly lot most of time. After a few sessions they'll soon realise we are just being friendly.<br /></p><p>As I head up through the first major waypoint through a gate. Mountain bikers come hurtling towards me from the distance. Their clattering chains and rear derailers alert me to their presence. I slowly walk uphill towards them giving way when our paths cross.</p> <p>Pretty nice bikes really Orange and a Scott I think. Both full suspension. nice</p> <p>A few more pile through as I’m missing with my camera phone. Bloody thing not working, think I need a new SD card for it. So no photos for me. Knackers!</p> <p>This field is inhabbited with cow's and sheep, they just tend to carry on eating until you stop, which at that point they just stare at you. Eventually I reach the gate where the path heads right and walk along the path and stone wall to the start of the hills. Can see the waterfall from the walk up. Looks far but easily reachable.</p> <p>I did wanted to go up the main hill to check the top path out but end up heading left along the obvious cut path towards the water fall, its easier and I'm lazy. The weather is sunny and with not much wind so I am drinking plenty of water. Hope there is water further on or it'll be no puddings for me! (Pudding is a dehydrated jobby, chocolate moose, yummy) Am trying to go light weight and I took a gamble that water would be available on this walk, after all it does pass a water fall! Dehydrated food is lighter but needs water so you need to carry extra.</p> <p>As I carry on slowly climbing on teh grassy well worn path I reach the main walk way where the path turns to sand adn grit stone rocks. An older looking man with grey hair calls to me from a higher path. "You don't want to go that way to Red Brook, it gets trickster on the way up and out." Turns out he is a park ranger, comes with a radio and everything. I heed his advice, thank him and head along the suggested path. I have done the lower section a good few times, but with my current foot issue and the fact its been an entire year since I did it, its safer to listen to someone with superior knowledge of the land layout. Maybe some other time. The climber inside screams in my head some reference to cats and that I'm being soft....?</p> <p>Sun is still hammering down, its a beautiful day. Not much wind so it gets a little clammy. A proper shirt would have been useful, least I could unbutton is and rolls the sleeves up. Don’t know why I didn’t wear one really, I do favour them due to their versatility.</p> <p>The paths gets more hard packed. As I draw closer to the water fall a glance left shows me that Mermaids pool is still there, with water as well no less. Am pretty chuffed about that. Pudding definitely back on! Hozarr!</p> <p>Reaching the waterfall or what's left of it in this scorching few weeks, is alittle disappointing, not much water, but a pool there surrounded by kids from a group. Was hoping to get a section to myself to cool my aching foot down, ice cold water would do it good. Eventually I find a spot to myself, boot off, socks off ... bliss! Foot happily cooling down.<br /></p> <p>More people turn up as its the focal point og the walks around here, not enough to be too many, but enough to be lightly busy. Most don't stay long, just long enough for a drink n snack then off again. Its kind of nice hanging about while people come and go. AT this time its no where near dark so I have time to spare. Fig’s out (They are sweet), make a mental note not bring so much food next time, and this and me leaving food items behind. Oh well.</p> <p>Water check, got 1 litre clean so I fill my other bottle from what little there is of running water. There is a small spatter of water of which I can fill a bottle for cooking.</p> <p>Sun feels nice may have a nap.</p> <p>Later once I’m done basking in the sun I note a man wandering whether or not to fill his bottle up. I speak to him, offer some advice about checking up stream and give him a water purification tablet to put in his bottle. He seems pleased, and then heads off with a cheery goodbye. I wish him a good journey.</p> <p>After 30 minutes or so later I decide to head do to my where I'll be staying for the night. Have a bit of a headache too, brought on by sugar treats and a bad neck no less. Remembered my first-aid kit does not have any pain killers in any more since it was soaked last time I used it. Fail. Lesson to learn I think. Must refill it later once I get back.<br /></p> <p>Mermaid's Pool was little along the path and then down about 100 meter in height, it’s not overly steep if you go about it sensibly. Which in the past I have not done so, this time however with bad foot, I’m more <s>boring</s> sensible.</p> <p>Was needing a toilet stop also so I hurried down to mermaids pool. Dumped my pack and headed off to find some privacy. I do remember a time when I'd try and hold it until I could reach proper facilities, no point really it’s just something you have to deal with male or female.</p> <p>Feeling better it was time to set up home for the night. Managed a respectable Flying ‘V’ with the tarp but wished I had that second pole or a stick at least to lift the roof slightly. Would have been good to get a picture of my setup but buggered camera says otherwise. Muh. </p> <p>Bivvy bag out next then filled with my sleeping bag and mat. My head now throbbing from my neck. Was considering going to bed as my head was getting more and more sore. But decided to cook dinner on my new stove and get soem food down me. Dry food out, water boiling I started to eat, Beef n potato hot pot. Typical dehydrated meal, loads of flavour (salt) always between the temperature of either molten lava or just plain not warm enough. My head made me lose my appetite at this point and decide to go to bed instead after carefully wrapping back up about 90% of the meal I’d left. </p> <p>I blame the sugary Fig’s I ate for a snack for my lunch for triggering my bad head and dump them 2 meters away from my Bivvy as punishment… that’ll teach em….</p> <p>As I fell asleep with the final sun setting in view, my head starts to throb. Will be fine in the morning.</p> <p>Funny dreams await me during the night, too weird to put into words but provide me with entertainment later in the morning as I think back to them.</p> <p>I wake at dawn, the sun not up but its light starting to shine on the underside of the clouds with a lovely purple red colour. A photo would be good at this time but I doubt it would catch the moment anywhere as near as perfect as it is.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Breakfast was last nights un-eaten dinner heated up in the pot with water. Turns out it keeps pretty well, as it tastes exactly the same, texture as well, not too sure what it says about the food but I happily inhale it. Brew on as well, some nice tea. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">The day is dry and warm so I don’t need any extra layers, not that I brought any, would prob need to do a little light exercise if I was cold. Not this morning though!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Its peaceful here, even with the birds calling out to each other, not a soul about, I have the entire place to myself. <b style=""><i style="">This is why I do this. </i></b>For once in a long while I feel at peace, my mind is clear and I’m happy.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Time slows down, and I take in the moment sat on my sleeping bag enjoying the views and listening to nothing what so ever.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">I finish my drink and decide to pack up, stove away, bivvy packed away, tarp away too. Quick litter check, nothing .... good. Pretty light pack if I do say so myself. Back up what I came down to pick up the main path, was not in a rush so I take it in sections. No sweating for me!</p><p class="MsoNormal"> Eventually I hit path and head along the top towards the reservoir and drawing closer to my car. Its just gone 9am at this point, I encounter 2 people along the way, one gentleman is doing the Wainwrights and has bagged an impressive 117 out of 214 so far. He has a sheep dog with him that’s wearing a rather nifty looking coat. Has a handle on it too.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Walking eventually down the hill side towards the main path I head along the familiar wall at the side of the reservoir towards the pump house. Just as the path forks up (I want the bottom one) I stop and chat to a older man about walking, climbing and what young ones my age do. Most people have the impression I’m in my twenties little do they know I’m a decade older than they think. After wishing the man a good walk I head back along to the car.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">It’s a pretty uneventful walk back after I leave the path and pick up the main road, I pass lots of people heading into where I have just came from. Am I walking the wrong way? Maybe, back to business of life.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-style: italic;">Prologue: Lessons learnt? Bring another pole, less food and wear a shirt. Perhaps a wind sheild for the stove? Most importantly, </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">do this more often.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-style: italic;">ferrol</span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p>ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-24535726092337615542008-10-05T08:42:00.005+01:002008-10-05T08:57:57.256+01:00returning from busy-ness!Been well over a year since I have posted, I have returned! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">And</span> what have I been up to you ask? Well once I returned from my trip I settled back into my old job, n started my own side business fixing domestic computer systems. (home users)<br /><br />When I was travelling I fixed quite a number of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">PC's</span> whilst in many different countries which got us free <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">internet</span> access and other goodies so I figure may as well get paid for it too! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Having</span> gonna back into my old job and a little while later getting restless for new things i also changed jobs too to somewhere more interesting. So new job to keep me busy.<br /><br />Oh I've also taken up <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Canoeing</span> too, yup <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">thats</span> right open <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">canoeing</span>, so peaceful, so nice, so relaxing. even have my own canoe now, 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">nd</span> hand but she's great.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aTu0CxaM0pLeGQmWLtzG3uiuc8NGsb12JILicQMJoIpWCePrTHRaQheUBr9v05TA9Rts8Cs1s3HHl6VNgZd4K7c4aZPHNObegAhACjhcDIRUpz43qRoB7gT_doDyU5DzJndionmOGfCe/s1600-h/014.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aTu0CxaM0pLeGQmWLtzG3uiuc8NGsb12JILicQMJoIpWCePrTHRaQheUBr9v05TA9Rts8Cs1s3HHl6VNgZd4K7c4aZPHNObegAhACjhcDIRUpz43qRoB7gT_doDyU5DzJndionmOGfCe/s320/014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253573860821385314" border="0" /></a><br />Did a little trip in and also took my Hammock along, ended up falling asleep, it was a very lazy afternoon, really relaxing!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfsFHeG5Z-fSUxTp0li8oMwNRoa12LQvo_6dlxLX0cgVvtmbzlkjUddf9wlqcYEv4GyNBFqIb-e5lz7BvQhF0QiZz5iQW_Cn-JrkuUEExfqGHXgPQpjGm7i-Grb1VpVGHdNgx4In-IekaQ/s1600-h/010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfsFHeG5Z-fSUxTp0li8oMwNRoa12LQvo_6dlxLX0cgVvtmbzlkjUddf9wlqcYEv4GyNBFqIb-e5lz7BvQhF0QiZz5iQW_Cn-JrkuUEExfqGHXgPQpjGm7i-Grb1VpVGHdNgx4In-IekaQ/s320/010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253574352681395874" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">That's</span> me above, working hard and yer, I've sprouted hair on me face, think it makes me look older but its more a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">convienence</span> thing. Keeps my face warm too. Kinda picked up my face <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">furniture</span> in Japan, one so I'd be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">warming</span> in Nepal and 2 I wasn't sure if I wanted to shave everyday and find hot water to do it too. So the face stays.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Whats</span> next, well this year I'm going to try mushrooms! I do normally hat<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">e them</span> as their texture n smell usually put me off but wild ones I'm willing to do. Also next year will be heading to Canada to do some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">canoeing</span> up one of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">the</span> rivers, not sure which one yet, but am looking forward to the planning! Will of course need to hire gear and pick up food. But am looking forward to it. Any hint n tips are much welcome.<br /><br />So in summary am Back!<br /><br />See you again soon!<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-27972577589691364252007-09-08T20:28:00.000+01:002007-09-08T20:53:45.073+01:00Long Gaps in time and other adventuresBeen along time again, so busy, not had too much time to get out unfortunately, kinda miss my nights out under the stars, open live fire going, friends about or on my own on solo time. Learning more about whats around me, what secrets I will uncover that has been hiding in plain site all this time. New plants, new uses, new food to try, skill of the past to learn.<br /><br />Been very busy, work, life commitments, so much to tell you, but unfortunately time is against me again, for shortly I'm travel east to the other side of the world. I'm going to be Back packing for 4 months round South East Asia, starting Hong Kong, Japan, Tibet/Nepal then Thailand and possibly South Korea.<br /><br />Not done too much bushcraft, but it has helped me out from time to time, with either handy nettle cord to tie things or the inner bark of a Willow tree for a headaches I had when I was out n about. Bushcraft never ceases to amaze me, the skills I learnt are useful tools to help me in my lifetime. Make things that little bit better, provided by nature as well.<br /><br />Since starting bushcraft I have become a lot more environmentally aware, I recycle as much as I can, waste as little of water and electricity as possible. I look at plants and trees differently now, what were once weeds I now know as useful plants that provide, food, cord and medicines.<br />It makes me stand in awe and saddens me at the same time, every thing we need is provided by nature if we only take time out to look at what around us. Yet as species we destroy and consume it all relying more and more on industrial solutions artificial and unnatural.<br /><br /><br />If any of you care to see how I'm doing you can see my journey on a travel website called <a href="http://www.getjealous.com/ferrol">www.getjealous.com</a> .<br /><br />Oh and I've just bought a Canoe too an open one. I know a few of you also canoe as well (<a href="http://mungobah.blogspot.com/">Mungo</a> being one that springs to mind.). Once I get back I'm looking forward to learning how to do it, hopefully, opening the door to new adventures into nature where I normally could not go.<br /><br />Right end for now. I return in January. My bags are packed. And my faithful Hat is coming with me.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLGOD4CIBCoxNRcdldR81ZmSH6OxrHUM8Cv4x6K5zVJbKmcjuHg2iCR8k1MGG1Ob_edenvMgu2DHpV6u_aLJWW2ZISj2yaqAOkwgv48udRiypk30kDn93gthg7hzfK4SKNzl_ONOM-xt6/s1600-h/bagspacked.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLGOD4CIBCoxNRcdldR81ZmSH6OxrHUM8Cv4x6K5zVJbKmcjuHg2iCR8k1MGG1Ob_edenvMgu2DHpV6u_aLJWW2ZISj2yaqAOkwgv48udRiypk30kDn93gthg7hzfK4SKNzl_ONOM-xt6/s320/bagspacked.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5107923686676336370" border="0" /></a><br />Take care. Keep learning.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-5842418970042504852007-06-17T18:43:00.000+01:002007-06-17T07:57:00.735+01:00Wood carved Spoon!The bushcraft knife is pretty much the most important tool used in bushcraft today, it is one of the lightest and portable of all the cutting tools used in bushcraft today. But without the skill in using it it can be more dangerous than help. Carving a spoon can help you develop that skill....<br /><br />Its seems the standard right of passage for all bushcrafters at some point it to carve themselves a spoon to use. This does number of things, it helps you get used to using the knife and developing skill in cutting and shaving, it can teach you about what cuts can and can't be done with certain types of wood. And its incredibly relaxing and satisfying creating something useful you can use on every outing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_f5kLyNDQgAxXJJZfSip_IFYvF1Le0mssjiwF_JPZyFHg6W_BufUJt58lmXMdAlaIvx2EINM3SbR7L-0lcMhMwY65GLDyCLIsKq9LBvvTuc_DxUysRxKjaF6CnUh953EwM4ezHZqy-Aj/s1600-h/cutting_tools.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_f5kLyNDQgAxXJJZfSip_IFYvF1Le0mssjiwF_JPZyFHg6W_BufUJt58lmXMdAlaIvx2EINM3SbR7L-0lcMhMwY65GLDyCLIsKq9LBvvTuc_DxUysRxKjaF6CnUh953EwM4ezHZqy-Aj/s320/cutting_tools.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075262168293451090" border="0" /></a>My current experience started with a few nice pieces of Birch I cut from some "managed" silver birches in my local woods. They were just lying on the floor waiting to rot so<span class="on" style="display: block;" id="formatbar_CreateLink" title="Link" onmouseover="ButtonHoverOn(this);" onmouseout="ButtonHoverOff(this);" onmouseup="" onmousedown="CheckFormatting(event);FormatbarButton('richeditorframe', this, 8);ButtonMouseDown(this);"></span> I couldn't let nice wood like that go to waste could I? ;-)<br /><br />After reading an article on <a href="http://www.bushcraftuk.com/articles/diy/spoonylicious.html">bushcraftuk</a> about carving spoons I decided to have ago. The tool's I used were my trusty frost knife, an Axe and a folding saw. The Axe and saw were both used to get me to a point in which I had a basic spoon outline, which in itself was developing skill in Axe use.<br /><br />This was basically, splitting a log in half and the drawing a rough outline with a pencil on the now flat surface. The saw was used to cut "stop" cuts at the right points to stop the axe from splitting or taking off too much. BTW the wood was still wet at this point.<br /><br />Knife work then began on the now spoon outline created. I had an idea of what I wanted, I just needed to remove all the bits I didn't want from the wood! heh<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Hgnbvhyphenhyphen88osKsJa4mYoB3cyrVRjWS5vHm_zLyaAl2O5NSyQWa1uXeQxDiR4diKk24m_oLyRzB-Nb0kV2burkhRy0-fmqJACpUqEkEmPQRecOj5lNANDcTXlh2MyuISmpKNg7o9cistT1/s1600-h/spoon1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Hgnbvhyphenhyphen88osKsJa4mYoB3cyrVRjWS5vHm_zLyaAl2O5NSyQWa1uXeQxDiR4diKk24m_oLyRzB-Nb0kV2burkhRy0-fmqJACpUqEkEmPQRecOj5lNANDcTXlh2MyuISmpKNg7o9cistT1/s320/spoon1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075264092438799714" border="0" /></a><br />As you can see it is rough but taking shape nicely.<br /><br />I carried on over the next few days doing bits when time permitted, each time getting that little bit closer. The bowl of the spoon was the most interesting part as I had a nice elegant shape in my mind, it was also gonna be the most challenging as one cut too deep could either split the wood or change the shape of the bowl.<br /><br />The next stage was to use the crook knife to hollow the spoon bit out itself, this too a little doing to discover how to use it smoothly without making an ugly mess. I found it easier to use small controlled strokes. Once I was satisfied with the shape I went on to sanding from big grit to fine grit paper until I had a nice smooth finish.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rTxD5ncY_To6w0TRiMRH-QTGXpQbtK8ro7I9hWXTt7z8ibdQ42dauPwd4Lna9fON3h0v9H7CaA6nnTuFnMllnTUZwbt9Ir8tGqtPBS1cOAOYMns-X6z5aTr_ykkkQqvVpwcsawMLxyDr/s1600-h/spoon_final.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rTxD5ncY_To6w0TRiMRH-QTGXpQbtK8ro7I9hWXTt7z8ibdQ42dauPwd4Lna9fON3h0v9H7CaA6nnTuFnMllnTUZwbt9Ir8tGqtPBS1cOAOYMns-X6z5aTr_ykkkQqvVpwcsawMLxyDr/s320/spoon_final.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075266501915452786" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggswI3OyPSS72QttNUSCewGISyLIXSaQu1-YYjld7koNI6cEDcqTCo5leR6p7cSmNrL5TcmiLnaNrxlRWLo-2aPm6GLO2bn6X8edovLD1o09_wZ5nfdvBaA9M0-SYV727U5jimkRGH7OWU/s1600-h/spoon_final2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggswI3OyPSS72QttNUSCewGISyLIXSaQu1-YYjld7koNI6cEDcqTCo5leR6p7cSmNrL5TcmiLnaNrxlRWLo-2aPm6GLO2bn6X8edovLD1o09_wZ5nfdvBaA9M0-SYV727U5jimkRGH7OWU/s320/spoon_final2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075266854102771074" border="0" /></a><br />And here we have the finished spoon, it will need oiling to make it more durable and water proof. Am very pleased on how it turned out.<br /><br />I should point out that it is best to have sharp tools to work with, sharp tools are safer and make the job a whole lot easier.<br /><br />A fun project and which I am pleased with as now I have my own a bushcraft spoon that can join me on my adventures. And I know it is mine. :-)<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-3276173277902712622007-06-11T22:58:00.000+01:002007-06-12T20:58:02.929+01:00Bushcraft cooked fish!I have been meaning to do fish for a long while cooked bushcraft style. Finally I decided to try it one weekend and this is the result.<br /><br />Fish can been cooked a number of ways, de-boned, skewed, steamed, baked, or in leaves on hot coals. I thought I'd try wrapped in leaves on hot coals approach. The leaves I choose were Dock leaves as they were recommended on the <a href="http://www.bushcraftuk.com/">bushcraftuk</a> forum as safe to use not to mention very abundant this time of year! I picked up about 8 large sized leaves which was enough to wrap the fish up well.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq29W5Oe2ZWVVXPiXhcgPg-hi_6Cypk4sjMVEl5eczFz4K2WfzLsbA5pxkK2iKSB5o1c_SSd7O0xCBMIMkgQ4l7TkIjjWCL4OpdzdUU494q3ouQqmjNftbmHXBcUiyy4IFJF7XKIeAn-2G/s1600-h/wrappedfish1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq29W5Oe2ZWVVXPiXhcgPg-hi_6Cypk4sjMVEl5eczFz4K2WfzLsbA5pxkK2iKSB5o1c_SSd7O0xCBMIMkgQ4l7TkIjjWCL4OpdzdUU494q3ouQqmjNftbmHXBcUiyy4IFJF7XKIeAn-2G/s320/wrappedfish1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5074931709214729506" border="0" /></a><br />I don't think it matters how you wrap them, I had about 3 layers of leaves on the fish as I was paranoid I'd burn straight through it to the fish. When I was out gathering leaves I also made a point in grabbing 1 large Nettle stem to use as cordage to tie the package together. Actually the first time I've actually used that <a href="http://ferrols.blogspot.com/2006/11/weekend-of-fun.html">particular skill</a> for anything serious. I placed the fish on the hot coals I had prepared earlier and covered some of the top with hot ash and coals also. (To get an even cook)<br />After about 20-30 minutes I pulled the package out of the heat and opened it up. It smelt great.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ldluYAeXALnmqY9gdGEkMN8t2I_M9WdWCuhyphenhyphenbLfIPV2mvIpmEFJ06914OoFzGkuJb5MINxPKKa9PHOP5KVz2koQ8Ov8FfPxGVE-IrCDLGjpJ_tFa4sghZ5papkY7IOeQ9Q2XCAjzsDUm/s1600-h/wrappedfish2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ldluYAeXALnmqY9gdGEkMN8t2I_M9WdWCuhyphenhyphenbLfIPV2mvIpmEFJ06914OoFzGkuJb5MINxPKKa9PHOP5KVz2koQ8Ov8FfPxGVE-IrCDLGjpJ_tFa4sghZ5papkY7IOeQ9Q2XCAjzsDUm/s320/wrappedfish2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5074934092921578802" border="0" /></a><br />After opening the leaves up gingerly I half expected the fish to be either a) Burnt to ashes or b) undercooked. Surprisingly it was neither and I had very succulent looking trout to eat. The flesh just fell away from the bone, it was perfect and tasted absolutely fantastic!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrS5sKihYHw1DM8ysRp08gVJF33CUJ-rPfgL29RmfWohVomGZWjfdG0eIi0alUVDvzZkX0dPDbMIaz_tCxZhv53iIM1K3ai_Q_3RPuOnKHXqTt6ua2gwBrGaDpg9OgFgg7c4K9IZO_mEhq/s1600-h/wrappedfish3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrS5sKihYHw1DM8ysRp08gVJF33CUJ-rPfgL29RmfWohVomGZWjfdG0eIi0alUVDvzZkX0dPDbMIaz_tCxZhv53iIM1K3ai_Q_3RPuOnKHXqTt6ua2gwBrGaDpg9OgFgg7c4K9IZO_mEhq/s320/wrappedfish3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5074936652722087234" border="0" /></a>Summary:<br />Bloody nice fish, best I have to say I've had in a long long time, full of flavour and tender to eat. Another item added to my bushcraft knowledge. <span style="font-weight: bold;">You have to try it!</span><br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-48232412651825333922007-04-04T07:26:00.000+01:002007-04-04T16:46:11.090+01:00Super busy!Hello!<br />Been really busy of late, had no time to go and play in the woods for anything, work keeping me sufficiently tired and doing plenty of climbing too. Hoping to get out this weekend though and get a night under the stars.<br /><br />Got new kits too, 2 new sleeping bags, both Bargain prices, a Nanok endurance 0 degree bag and a Mountain Equipment Firewalker 3 bag. This bag was used recently in a bunk house in wales, it was really warm, too hot at times, was sweating most nights in my liner. Only managed to get a good night on the last night where I used it as a basic duvet.<br /><br />Been thinking of getting a new stove too, a remote canister stove that's stable and has a low profile. Will sell one of my whisperlites to fund it, so it shouldn't cost me in theory anything really.<br /><br />One thing I did see whilst in Wales is a set of plaques in memory of a couple that passed away at separate times, was pretty touched by it to say the least. I took a picture of it and had a moment paying my respects. The top plaque says "In Memory of George Wroe 1915-1999. Walking Llanberis pass whenever he chooses. And his wifes as you see.<br /><br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JWYUzNqokH7eAG4iZNYixqTZ6dy__DsikoqncWB6Nu1AWt5YTpyU7k8kzu6iN2a_ka4ukxCQSrPtTy8X01QpY-njT30eRlgFRG9M-doSthlblFTRWjWj05CxX2AHprZN7kZUaGWAjrll/s1600-h/01-04-07_1235.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JWYUzNqokH7eAG4iZNYixqTZ6dy__DsikoqncWB6Nu1AWt5YTpyU7k8kzu6iN2a_ka4ukxCQSrPtTy8X01QpY-njT30eRlgFRG9M-doSthlblFTRWjWj05CxX2AHprZN7kZUaGWAjrll/s320/01-04-07_1235.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5049599106187270546" border="0" /></a><br />Right busy busy for me. Will check back soon, with Sleep bag reviews and kit setups.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-77575921813753240332007-03-14T07:28:00.000+00:002007-03-14T08:07:00.210+00:00Busy times, Hammock discoveries and fungusBeen very busy with climbing, work, business and hammock testing, worked a few things out with the hammock as well.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hammock:</span><br />Right When sleeping in the dd hammock you have a tendency to slide slowly down until you centre of Gravity is at the bottom of the dip, hence your feet end up dangling over the edge of the hammock. To solve this you can either set it so the foot end is slightly higher than head end, or you can always get inside the hammock. I haven't tried to sleep inside it yet but it was very warm on the occasion I did try lying inside of it. Also played with some tape as well, round tree instead of using the rope.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGyb-ATnDIbWTJE2A36Us2QDts8vYZXA9YCTvBoD9z98XnXl-nan4QUFU56oKKbdenQFZWR-IDw2xN02ijp_0rQGMefVLSb4GjUoOu104tWxPCGHYz_nL525blDCva2cWm9pscOGB01Y7/s1600-h/hammock_inside.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGyb-ATnDIbWTJE2A36Us2QDts8vYZXA9YCTvBoD9z98XnXl-nan4QUFU56oKKbdenQFZWR-IDw2xN02ijp_0rQGMefVLSb4GjUoOu104tWxPCGHYz_nL525blDCva2cWm9pscOGB01Y7/s320/hammock_inside.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5041681662815303554" border="0" /></a>Inside the hammock<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibYRLZp11R7o8OcvG-t24RlnQRhze9aOo6RiOmREMK7dmTk0fbBBFiZb2nNML1MB62_BYC4I9h3lELqWJiJya8F_vi_D851lmZm-s8ga-dk9ctxjvBYlhMsTg7aexbebng6tEM8kbWm1d/s1600-h/BCUKhmmcks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibYRLZp11R7o8OcvG-t24RlnQRhze9aOo6RiOmREMK7dmTk0fbBBFiZb2nNML1MB62_BYC4I9h3lELqWJiJya8F_vi_D851lmZm-s8ga-dk9ctxjvBYlhMsTg7aexbebng6tEM8kbWm1d/s320/BCUKhmmcks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5041681924808308626" border="0" /></a>Tape round a Birch tree (note: new hammock)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Also ordered a new Hammock from the <a href="http://www.bushcraftuk.com/">Bushcraftuk</a> Forum in a <a href="http://www.bushcraftuk.com/community/showthread.php?t=19141">Group buy</a>. It arrived and I played with it on a lunch time, it is much wider than my dd one, but does not come with straps nor is it double layered. Needs a proper test though. It certainly is very wide, I can lay width wise on it!!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fungus and fire craft:</span><br />Managed to get some Horsehoof fungus or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fomes_Fomentarius"><b>Fomes Fomentarius</b></a> the other weekend off an old birch tree.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEs7CTqZf6CXOP88BOyGQA1Zbj0OQb-u9aQ3qyC0zqGmxfxQc22z64DFMj6iJRFZUu2jejfquQeY6xCUpz4hsckrUkG5tMeRZauXIJQkdAHN21wOl6EPfBvuNHZ3R8LM18Y9lTRbCAIQD/s1600-h/Fomes_fomentarius.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYEs7CTqZf6CXOP88BOyGQA1Zbj0OQb-u9aQ3qyC0zqGmxfxQc22z64DFMj6iJRFZUu2jejfquQeY6xCUpz4hsckrUkG5tMeRZauXIJQkdAHN21wOl6EPfBvuNHZ3R8LM18Y9lTRbCAIQD/s320/Fomes_fomentarius.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5041686619207563170" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I wanted to see if I could use it as I had heard many people say it can make good tinder for catching a spark from firesteal. Took a little researching to find out how to use it, turns out its the outer layer just below the hard exterior called the<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Amadou</span> which you need to separate from the rest, this you scrape to get a little fine downy pile which you can then drop sparks onto. I did this and got a nice glowing stable ember, just needed to get that into a flame, I did get chance to test this out one night with a tinder bundle (My first ever) but didn't manage to blow it into a flame, am guessing my bundle wasn't good enough as it was made mostly out of dried grass so was very fine. I shall try again later with tinder bundles and let you know how I get on.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /></span><span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Life:</span><br />Busy Studying as usual a little a day, though I do think I need to step it up a little if I'm going to reach any of my expected goals and bag the exam in a couple of months time. Work is the usual boring place, with not a lot of interesting things happening really. But they say it is what you make of it. It is busy just boring and not very challenging at all, feel like I'm wasting myself there. But that will change soon, so I just need to be patient.<br /><br />ferrol<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div></div>ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-10237854535007081842007-03-02T07:14:00.000+00:002007-03-05T08:00:10.179+00:00Hammock Camping (Kit Review Part 2)Hammock Review Part 2<br /><br />Carrying on from the first review (<a href="http://ferrols.blogspot.com/2007/02/hammock-camping-kit-review-part-1.html">hammock-camping-kit-review-part-1</a>) I was itching to get out and test the hammock...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwga0qrnl1fyIa8-QYEKNt2xJ3dymi8T2n1sveQ6Fuw8DopIpzLgiTYUgFc_jmX67lygHI4I9yBxXUEJkfqN7XAVJnw__d16qZdVmEYvUVCkgSWw4yEhMWqfs26sO1FPxQGNpgz78L7d-n/s1600-h/hammockknot1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwga0qrnl1fyIa8-QYEKNt2xJ3dymi8T2n1sveQ6Fuw8DopIpzLgiTYUgFc_jmX67lygHI4I9yBxXUEJkfqN7XAVJnw__d16qZdVmEYvUVCkgSWw4yEhMWqfs26sO1FPxQGNpgz78L7d-n/s320/hammockknot1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5038341562143631154" border="0" /></a>An opportunity to test the hammock came up and I jumped at the chance to give it ago. The area we were heading was heavily wooded with Pine (useful) so just needed to find a nice place to pitch the tarp and Hammock. Luckily I found a nice place, and promptly had my tarp up and tied the hammock to underneaths two handy tree's the right distance apart (in my case 3 and a half double paces) I tried another new knot which was just round the tree once and finished with a standard bow knot like you'd do laces on your shoes up with. The Hammock started at bum height and I tentatively sat on it, whilst very carefully keep a suspicious eye on the knots. Last thing I really wanted was to be dumped on my ass... though to people I came with would find it bloody funny I expect!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs5U4JtDK7ENraOx_2jhdXdFEM0kNBXI8jKm7ar4jePtpzN_HtZLOKv41LAC4u2dWbidMkUuVqw3NhXfuD7EA8pLAPemR1kiKPqbyZNl5XVj1UXzNTVmztq5S9l3RinC7QCZ1VRBfLoqh/s1600-h/hammocksetup1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs5U4JtDK7ENraOx_2jhdXdFEM0kNBXI8jKm7ar4jePtpzN_HtZLOKv41LAC4u2dWbidMkUuVqw3NhXfuD7EA8pLAPemR1kiKPqbyZNl5XVj1UXzNTVmztq5S9l3RinC7QCZ1VRBfLoqh/s320/hammocksetup1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5038344525671065426" border="0" /></a>The knots held so I had a lay down on it, it was bliss, nice to get the weight off my feet, I couldn't wait to sleep tonight. The sleeping Mat (thermorest ¾ ) and bag came out and was put on top. Now the hammock itself has an option to actually climb in it and cocoon yourself inside, but I opted to just sleep on top this time round, will need to try inside later on. The only real modification I made was to attach 4 drip cords to the ropes so water would run off in the event of heavy rain. With a little more faffing with my tarp as it didn't shield me from the wind properly I was ready.<br /><br />The beauty of the hammock is that I didn't need to check the ground for a flat area's or move any stones or avoid roots or potential flood area's. I could just hang the hammock anywhere I pleased so I was spoiled for locations. I was with a few other people and I noted they were prep'ping their area's clearing bits of wood, rocks and doing the usual checks. The time taken to get a tarp and hammock up was very quick, I think with more practice the time could be halved easily, giving more time to simply enjoy the surrounding and get on with any other important jobs such as gathering firewood.<br /><br />After half a day Bushcrafting I retired to my bed ... er hammock. Getting in a sleeping bag easy, I unzipped my bag sat in and swung my legs round, then zipped up. Felt good inside, I noted straight away there wasn't the usual hard floor beneath me or any rocks or roots I may of missed. As i looked up at my tarp I thought about when the weather gets better and I can do without it completely, can fall asleep looking up at the sky, which is pretty much the same about bivvying I guess. Just not as comfy ;-)<br /><br />My nights sleep was very restful, woke up the odd time as my bag wasn't my usual one so not as warm. But a few adjustments of the shoulder baffles I was happy again and drifted back off to the sound of the woods.<br /><br />Altogether a very good nights sleep. Woke up just fine, and was pleased I could just swing out and not have to pick myself off the floor if I was sleeping low. The one thing I did notice was that the lines had stretched slightly seen as it was new. So I was slightly closer to the ground. But I think that was a one off and don't expect it to happen next time.<br /><br />Summary: I'd highly recommend a Hammock to anyone who wants to sleep out, its comfortable and easily less hassle when choosing a place to stay, you are protected from insects marching across your face, any stinging plants, small rodents and flood too. It also doesn't leave a impact on local vegetation, it leaves you time to do other things such as enjoy yourself in the surrounding.<br /><br />Some Random Hammock shots:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBmCCkxaJnP-gsQmg7LnzC87veWdHgDYZhLKnTbsrPnddjvYZmQD_yYDJ9WwP5V_zPxlcLQufS7Mb2JrBnyaLpoV8W6R9OCM7Ny4MqOEAvyILrsS0SFOvHDkD2mGk6JBhOEKTh1E1hVga/s1600-h/hammock_display1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBmCCkxaJnP-gsQmg7LnzC87veWdHgDYZhLKnTbsrPnddjvYZmQD_yYDJ9WwP5V_zPxlcLQufS7Mb2JrBnyaLpoV8W6R9OCM7Ny4MqOEAvyILrsS0SFOvHDkD2mGk6JBhOEKTh1E1hVga/s320/hammock_display1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5038343220001007426" border="0" /></a>Hammock with bag nicely rolled up, note the drip cords already attached. You can just see the zip down one side.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwB8-rjckHsg_J4jx9cDJ4fxw9FLlLRV_dmVOEWz5qBCN2gHQ070UhAGtOKMdydrBmqyTVF6ygUYny_lEepa-B7E-6x7v4wRQ9MrS-DKyVuJUJa-DQLfl1aa9QF4vVpYyGihYKvq_uoz4e/s1600-h/hammock_bag1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwB8-rjckHsg_J4jx9cDJ4fxw9FLlLRV_dmVOEWz5qBCN2gHQ070UhAGtOKMdydrBmqyTVF6ygUYny_lEepa-B7E-6x7v4wRQ9MrS-DKyVuJUJa-DQLfl1aa9QF4vVpYyGihYKvq_uoz4e/s320/hammock_bag1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5038345681017268066" border="0" /></a>Shown with a 30 cm ruler to show scale, the bag itself is not tightly packed at all and could fit into a much smaller bag. This version is actually the bag for the Travel Hammock.<br /><br />Gets my approval!<br /><br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-74342763838075948282007-02-27T06:56:00.000+00:002007-02-27T07:24:34.103+00:00Hammock Camping (Kit review part 1)Supplier: http://www.ddhammocks.co.uk<br />Model: Camping hammock<br />Colour: Green<br />Cost: £24<br />Weight: 700g<br />Dimensions: 2.4m x 1.3 flat, 30cm x 8cm (stuff sack)<br />Limits: 150KG - 6'5"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJjDL-yyk_ZkiDxPNb8xasQK-R59x-4mPFi2epiakj-soyHBFBjuNOr0SrqGrb6LdUK-_YQFjSYrxtnHoNGtvp6WpxR78WGZxsm7BINfk9lRj_ll3W1aSQAnambThit5ZGZk9BOI0HpcR/s1600-h/Untitled.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJjDL-yyk_ZkiDxPNb8xasQK-R59x-4mPFi2epiakj-soyHBFBjuNOr0SrqGrb6LdUK-_YQFjSYrxtnHoNGtvp6WpxR78WGZxsm7BINfk9lRj_ll3W1aSQAnambThit5ZGZk9BOI0HpcR/s320/Untitled.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5036110955189193954" border="0" /></a><br />Right having heard about all the good things about a hammock on various forums and being an impressionable young man, not to mention a gear freak, I decided on trying a hammock out for myself. A lot of people recommending the ddhammocks site as being A)Very good B)Light and most important of all cheap too :-)<br /><br />I ordered on Thursday afternoon, was posted Friday morning and an email was sent to my order address confirming it was posted. Very efficient. So a good start, was impressed.<br /><br />The parcel arrived Monday morning much to my excitement and I eagerly ripped into the packaging. First thing I noticed was that the bag had the wrong details printer, being mostly in Thai so I read the note enclosed which said that the bag indeed was incorrect and that they were hoping to change at some point in the future, just waiting for next shipment.<br /><br />The Hammock itself is dark green in colour and large enough to house a sleeping bag on it as well as in it. Its construction is double layer nylon weave with a zip up one side so you can actually enclose yourself fully inside of it in your very own cocoon. Both ends have rope threaded through it that bunches up to give the hammock its proper shape. The rope itself is nylon green weave a little frayed at the ends, but easily sealed with a little heat so not a problem. (I always seem to be modifying kit in some way or another.) The ropes which turn end up double ended on each end can then be tied to the nearest vertical object such as a tree or in my test case the racking in the warehouse. Weight is 700g with ropes (which is pretty good I'm lead to believe) size being 2.4m by 1.3. It does seem big at first but once you set it up it seems OK.<br /><br />Now for the set up. Having wondered my way into the ware house in search of a nice section of Racking strong enough to carry my modest weight (yer yer) I tied both ends on to a suitable section using a mooring hitch at first only to ditch it in favour of a better (IMHO) set-up, of which I have no idea what its called. I made sure the height was roughly bottom height from the floor at first and proceeded to carefully, sit back on the hammock until the ropes were taught and settled. This turned out to leave me approx 1 inch from the floor... useful. SO up I got and redid one side so the hammock was at a good height again. Then I sat down again into it.<br /><br />First impressions..... very comfy, I swung my legs round and laid back. Very comfy. Shoes were off and put on a convenient shelf near me and I settled in. I noticed the sides were quite high so I could get a sleeping bag on it and not be worried about rolling off one side.<br /><br />I must admit I dozed off a few times during this stressful, intense test session!<br /><br />Summary: A very simple comfy set up, though I will need to try actually sleeping on it for a night with sleeping bag and roll mat. Also I may modify the strapping to I can have just the one rope tying off instead of the double one. Should be easy to achieve using a Krab on either end. Also drip lines would need to be added so when it rains water does not run down the ropes soaking the hammock.<br /><br />Can't wait to try it out.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-31159084972868292892007-02-21T07:17:00.000+00:002007-02-21T07:42:04.541+00:00New Stove experimentBeen quite a while since my last post, have been very busy not had too much chance to play really, managed a couple of climbing session but nothing serious. Recently I got a chance to have a go at making a wood burning stove from basically a cutlery holder. The idea being I can use this where is may not be quite as safe or convenient to have a open fire whilst still giving me the option of getting a brew going if needed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-5DRBjfx8xqLKd7DxVnNbJ75wzgYf5dPhZ2L9mHHjNL4z1aUw_19deaCYzA34N-Gj_TMSWzZFjmYwLjuOJmORHn8HqePrjoTH6_dc90rPyZOP6HpPHkLkETcuaJNE0P3O1CUIyDCLo_uz/s1600-h/woodstove2a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-5DRBjfx8xqLKd7DxVnNbJ75wzgYf5dPhZ2L9mHHjNL4z1aUw_19deaCYzA34N-Gj_TMSWzZFjmYwLjuOJmORHn8HqePrjoTH6_dc90rPyZOP6HpPHkLkETcuaJNE0P3O1CUIyDCLo_uz/s200/woodstove2a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033885238711897234" border="0" /></a>The cutlery holder was a bog standard one bought from a crappy but famous Swedish furniture store. I simply cut a square flap in the front which would allow me to feed wood into it and added two steel tent pegs to hold anything that may slip down the inside rim. As you can see the stove is made of Stainless steel and has plenty of hole in it for air. Just needed to test it now.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKYNUnAYMFelQDTGqMr0nHAFSxkW1ypMCz3YWysztnGnOuF4WCHSdLhMISfoROEi_kC1eAj3Dl8zr03NK-lhNgaNk4BCcRCpjCD_R5gcA1isFa-pkYPvja51jr5APAVKcAH_f7N3kGX7z/s1600-h/woodstove1a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieKYNUnAYMFelQDTGqMr0nHAFSxkW1ypMCz3YWysztnGnOuF4WCHSdLhMISfoROEi_kC1eAj3Dl8zr03NK-lhNgaNk4BCcRCpjCD_R5gcA1isFa-pkYPvja51jr5APAVKcAH_f7N3kGX7z/s200/woodstove1a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033886754835352738" border="0" /></a>And the weekend after I managed to get into the Peak district and do some climbing, so I grabbed the chance to test it. Armed with my crusader cup and a brew kit I had a play. I used the standard method of starting a fire with birch bark and a firesteel then put some pre-cut wood in it. (Used my Axe before hand to do that as it was a nice excuse to chop something up :-) ) As you can see I managed to get two cups of hot water out of it, making a coffee and hot chocolate as well. It even managed to roost a few Marsh Mellows with the remaining heat. Fantastic!<br /><br />Am pretty pleased with it in all, simple and elegant way to make a brew without any of the dangers of an open fire. If I change it slightly I'd like it to of been slightly shorter so the cup or pot would be closer to the embers. But as it is it does a nice job at funneling the heat up anyway.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-9382367900134196132007-01-23T07:41:00.000+00:002007-01-23T07:56:59.026+00:00Meeting a hero...Been a while as I've been kinda busy, but recently I've managed to meet someone I admire greatly, one Mr Ray Mears.<br /><br />Yes that's right, Ray Mears, the UK's leading survival and bush craft expert, someone I've watched and learnt from through his DVD's and Book for a long while now. Have always wanted to meet him and see what he is like in real life.<br /><br />The venue was Tumbridge Wells south of the UK, about 5-6 hours driving solid, (south of London) He was doing a talk on various Photo's he has taken over the years. Well it was quite an adventure getting down, what with traffic through London, getting there an hour late and missing a good chunk of Rays talk. Also having my car attacked by some madman in a red van with a stick for no reason what so ever, while I might add traveling at 70 mph (now that was surreal!).<br /><br />Got down in time to still catch a good section of his talk and then the question and answers bit at the end, finally a book signing in the bar. That is where I met him in person. Its hard not to sound like a complete fool when talking about him, I've always admired this man, so meeting him was pretty special I think.<br /><br />Impressions of him in real life. A genuinely nice man who loves his bushcraft, his life and is very passionate about them all. He even goes on to say what makes him different is that he likes to <span style="font-weight: bold;">do bushcraft instead of talking about it</span>. Amen to that.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqqGYDx0lqkzS2TQoqLWpQfSFgPHNlZyHXwEN8l1v0Q6RFql9jlGRf1tlw0ZXZbrGa10S8UnxR4ng4QVmZ-xF3EARb_F2FQmcHn-EIqKOXt_M6BJLDOUhrjJV4TWqMVRfG8fAPG_9r0oi/s1600-h/garry_ray4.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqqGYDx0lqkzS2TQoqLWpQfSFgPHNlZyHXwEN8l1v0Q6RFql9jlGRf1tlw0ZXZbrGa10S8UnxR4ng4QVmZ-xF3EARb_F2FQmcHn-EIqKOXt_M6BJLDOUhrjJV4TWqMVRfG8fAPG_9r0oi/s320/garry_ray4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5023130732639221746" border="0" /></a><br />Well I got one of his books signed and also got to have a brief chat to him. As you can see with the very grainy picture. Was happy none the less.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-52623243378636513422007-01-11T14:07:00.000+00:002007-01-11T17:14:07.093+00:00New sharpening technique?Just a short one :-)<br /><br />Knife sharpening is a subject that I do enjoy reading about and playing with new techniques. I normally just use 2 Japanese whetstones, 1000 and a 6000 one. Stropping was just something I'd heard of people doing, well that soon changed.<br /><br />Normally I get a basic edge with the 1000 stone then I'd move to the 6000 for a nice mirror finish. After reading about stropping with a leather belt and having watched it on Ray Mears Extra's on one of his DVD's. I thought stropping was just an unnessasary act done by knife sharpeners as a final ceremony.<br /><br />After a particualr intense session I decided to give it ago for the hell of it.<br /><br />Stropping is the act of drawing the blade bevel away from you on a piece of leather to remove any bur's from the edge. It removes the bur and gives a better more stable edge, less minute fractures.<br /><br />After doing this for about 25 strops I tested it on the usual piece of paper and it sliced through effortlessly. Even tried it on my arm seeing if it would shave some hair. Well it did. I was impressed. <span style="font-weight: bold;">From now on I shall be stropping my blade.</span><br /><br />Also I don't really think I need to use the 1000 as much as it just really shapes the edge, while the 6000 does the sharpening. Just a thought.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-32052517936990918802007-01-04T07:40:00.000+00:002007-01-04T08:19:07.970+00:00Night in the woodsMy first proper night out in the woods by myself, sure I've solo'd on mountains many times backpacking my way in the National parks. But this was my official first time in woods as a Bushcrafter. I was looking for a nice set of woods and I think I found it. The weather was set to be windy and rainy, I seem to have picked a fine night to do it!<br /><br />Right gear wise I won't go into too much that I shall save later for a future post. I brought the basics Tarp, Bivvy bag, sleeping bag, water, food, fire making equipment of course and other items I thought I may find useful.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwjQqP9yaKAcdNt-o-AKXDzU3o-_xlPeFZzwl2ttk_b8ehbO3gwL5vmZ-szVSXeXNyfYGvEWRULy8L0vJ2hPw09HyGnJWgEEo5p4ojAZNBgoeAnCJdLgvS9I6w8suGffQZeWU5gbYVdPQ/s1600-h/31-12-06_1606.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwjQqP9yaKAcdNt-o-AKXDzU3o-_xlPeFZzwl2ttk_b8ehbO3gwL5vmZ-szVSXeXNyfYGvEWRULy8L0vJ2hPw09HyGnJWgEEo5p4ojAZNBgoeAnCJdLgvS9I6w8suGffQZeWU5gbYVdPQ/s200/31-12-06_1606.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5016082363442233170" border="0" /></a>The site I found was very peaty so I couldn't build a fire on raw ground (underground fire risk). Luckily there were plenty of rocks near so I dug down a little and made nice rock bed for the fire. Next the tarp went up and fire wood was gathered for my dinner to be cooked on and the all important brew! Ended up just sitting the cup on the coals to heat me dinner and water, should of really made a hanger for it. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Note: If you look carefully you can just make out the cup on the left.</span>)<br /><br />The amount of firewood I actually went through was very surprising, I ended up gathering a lot more, but seen as I didn't have much main fuel near by and no axe I was limited to medium sized wood. It was enough to cook my dinner but not enough for a cup of tea, so I had to fall back on to the fuel tablets I brought as backup(Lucky) By this time I'd settled so didn't really fancy getting up again, plus it was pitch black.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PBSYRqmAok2IU5ws-vyJ93hSbllKOjEy_Xlu3QXv4zfg-MfwrF1CsIBBFQMPaGUyfVg_8Zq6lT24ZDOfd8fMrLeP02CX82k3aHUu_evVNUlgqOSfWFXefzCcZLc9SIl2syL4mrIkOxA9/s1600-h/NY_home.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PBSYRqmAok2IU5ws-vyJ93hSbllKOjEy_Xlu3QXv4zfg-MfwrF1CsIBBFQMPaGUyfVg_8Zq6lT24ZDOfd8fMrLeP02CX82k3aHUu_evVNUlgqOSfWFXefzCcZLc9SIl2syL4mrIkOxA9/s200/NY_home.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5016082024139816770" border="0" /></a>The bivvy bag was out, mat inside and sleeping bag in ready, was time to write my journal. As it was dark I needed light so I thought it would be a good time to test the candle lantern. It performed brilliantly, nice warm light, subtle but enough to read and write with. And unaffected by wind and rain too. It was a bright moon at night, not quite full as yet but bright enough to throw silver light through the trees all about me. It was a very beautiful site, amazing how something so simple can stir such emotions. Just to think you'd never see any sights like this in the urban environment, the sky is normally bleached out by city lights. I think you lose a lot with when nature is pushed far away and excluded.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCm0aieXwOSJMcY9vCxS8w1Kakf2G2hKqYEUBajSW_2gqGXkuA6kAFsl2vmxZw4s7HeDenfGjWin8tkEJoyAgUhzozK_j35waNpLaEmc_z0kSoDrrRUAhp2-GTovo1EKulA0tKG2Tl318/s1600-h/31-12-06_1937.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCm0aieXwOSJMcY9vCxS8w1Kakf2G2hKqYEUBajSW_2gqGXkuA6kAFsl2vmxZw4s7HeDenfGjWin8tkEJoyAgUhzozK_j35waNpLaEmc_z0kSoDrrRUAhp2-GTovo1EKulA0tKG2Tl318/s200/31-12-06_1937.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5016083239615561570" border="0" /></a>By this time the fire was out and smouldering, and I was happily writing away, it was getting cold and the temperature was dropping, wind started blowing too..<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">was that movement?</span> I decided to get the fire going again. After collecting what I needed I had a nice fire burning and it made a vast improvement to my morale. Amazing how fire can do this. The only fault I could find was that it was very smoky, as most of the wood I found was damp on the outside so I ended up smelling smoky. I shoved the rest of the wood I gathered on and climbed into my bag to sleep.<br /><br />I slept well, it did rain but all I heard was the gentle pitter-patter on my tarp, I was glad I'd brought it instead of just bivvying. When I woke I reluctantly got out of my warm bag and got the stove running for a nice brew.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRBom5v6AHCOWrAnLACAp5-nwcBPwdAPbj-FtekBeDX2CEXf24Pv5CXZzV6-RK7ajkO_uQzAtqd4P39aJycL3v1uFHactq5EqG1ckbIehpQUo3Et8IyPqm9wvAmETkDH8_uPuXr8uVhsn/s1600-h/rucksac_tree.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRBom5v6AHCOWrAnLACAp5-nwcBPwdAPbj-FtekBeDX2CEXf24Pv5CXZzV6-RK7ajkO_uQzAtqd4P39aJycL3v1uFHactq5EqG1ckbIehpQUo3Et8IyPqm9wvAmETkDH8_uPuXr8uVhsn/s200/rucksac_tree.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5016086400711491442" border="0" /></a>It was now time to go. Up came the rocks and I watered down the fire just to be safe. Next I made sure there was no trace of be ever being there, did my second litter sweep just in case I missed anything and walk out back to civilization. I was happy. Wondering when and where my next adventure would be.<br /><br />What did I learn and what would I do differently?<br />Well I'd cut a lot more firewood, bring an Axe (which I haven't got yet) and I'd like to finish the stay without smelling like a smoked haddock! Perhaps a book to read and relax with? Oh and make the effort to make a pot hanger for me fire. <span style="font-weight: bold;">That little extra effort would really be worth it.</span><br /><br />Anyway, next up will be the gear I brought.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-3501115459199774992006-12-27T11:27:00.000+00:002006-12-27T15:44:31.404+00:00New gear and experimentsChristmas yielded a impressive amount of new kit for me to play with and try out. Its also a good opportunity to get some testing/play done. I firstly wanted to get a proper fire going as it had been a long time since I did one with just traditional setups, no firelighters, no liquid fire starters, no matches or lighters either. Just Flint n' steel.<br /><br />From the start I set myself some goals I wanted to try out the crusader cup and get a brew off it as well as play with a pot hanger type setup. This was in the back yard so no really big fires. I opted for a Stainless Steel tray as I didn't want to scorch the path or grass around the yard.<br />Rules were, Start fire using traditional methods, and boil enough water to make a brew. No cheating.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikp7d3ftX7IAge4ZRyLtBnMrJuCJiPxeAqplKQdhvkkqY5KAbI3ei9BneyRhBozjP2nNE2S0xAn3ZmX2fBVYKO8DlQWk7Qip0z7knpjlVafrT9Rah-RgWIvlFioqHvEKvpES9Pz7FP2lzb/s1600-h/cup_setup.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5013174061211114866" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikp7d3ftX7IAge4ZRyLtBnMrJuCJiPxeAqplKQdhvkkqY5KAbI3ei9BneyRhBozjP2nNE2S0xAn3ZmX2fBVYKO8DlQWk7Qip0z7knpjlVafrT9Rah-RgWIvlFioqHvEKvpES9Pz7FP2lzb/s200/cup_setup.jpg" border="0" /></a>Pot hanger setup was simple, I had seen it a couple of times in pictures and on a RayMears DVD as well. So I had a good idea on what I wanted. A pot hanger consisting of just 3 sticks one with notches in it so I could adjust the height from the fire. (Heat control) , a Y shaped one and a long one to keep the pot hanger on. Underneath the fire would be created.... duh.<br /><br /><p></p><br /><p>Luckily I had gathered to natural materials the previous week that I collect for the purpose of starting a nice fire. Had loads of small matchstick sized twigs, then pencil sized then bigger. Birch bark was used to catch sparks form the flint which took straight away. More bark had been already prepared so I quickly got it all burning and the twigs went on. The fire was going :-) </p><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafn2QHQVS2_obDJ7cXa2iOfwIBSTuDRkKict46b7Sl7Tq8XiUWF55PrymimCEThwVnbfL5GjVJ_7Agudhvu9EnuxMTQAqEcHQggQj9eKGB86gQBcT3_0pdIN5_VYts_YdqfILmEc_LFms/s1600-h/cupnfire1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5013181671893163394" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafn2QHQVS2_obDJ7cXa2iOfwIBSTuDRkKict46b7Sl7Tq8XiUWF55PrymimCEThwVnbfL5GjVJ_7Agudhvu9EnuxMTQAqEcHQggQj9eKGB86gQBcT3_0pdIN5_VYts_YdqfILmEc_LFms/s200/cupnfire1.jpg" border="0" /></a>The cup with its handle was next, and after a little while I had it all cooking nicely. Something about a fire on a cold night that does more than warm you. I could watch a fire going all night, very hypnotic. The main fuel I had (which turned out to be only just enough) was going and the water was heating up nicely. After a period of time passed (I kinda lost track) my water was ready and I made myself the first brew ever using this method. And do you know what <strong>it was the best cuppa I'd had for a long time</strong>. Maybe it was the teabag, maybe it was setup and actually going from nothing to having hot water from natural fire? either way it was a pretty sweet cup. Beats the kettle anyday.<br /><br />Lessons learnt? Need an axe for chopping wood for Prep :-) , also better to get more fuel than you really need, just in case. I only just had enough (no big fuel anyway).<br /><br />Sucessful night I'd say, was very pleased I managed to get a fire going and try out the Crusader cup at the sametime.<br /><br />Just another step closer.<br /><br />ferrol</p>ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-3000130904186202922006-12-24T23:59:00.000+00:002006-12-27T15:51:48.906+00:00Christmas, new gear to get away from it all with?OK officially its Christmas or past now, I was a lot more feastive than I thought I'd be originally. Even managed to bag the traditional climb Christmas day called (Surprisingly enough) Christmas crack. We even managed to get first climb in which means it was our duty to write a nice card to the rest of the days climbers. Its quite an event, loads of people descent on the crag and a jolly time is had, mince pies, Sherry even the odd fancy dress. Did the climb placed a card, some chocolate and a snowman toy on varoious parts of the climb for other CC climbers. Was a very busy day. After which it was on to the Family dinner and the usual hussle/bussle.<br /><br />Got new gear too, things I requested, Crusader cup, billy pot n candle lantern too, like the idea of the candle lantern very much, more natural light. An old idea in a newish product, it even retracks in on itself to be more compact. Brilliant.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5013162623713205602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1tm5SBDZxTH48IFcginf8Pj28NVEymeTL4E344gxv-VYQjqgbrNQO74aK98IQ9y6O13w9KuU0AZQaQKXbMWEuS6uhElNPlfQkyS7gwG3TnYDFRkUvItMEykdkhjIN9D1NvJ7-hQHSpsT/s200/originals.jpg" border="0" /><br />After all the dinners were had and the noise had died down I decided to have a quick surf of the net to see what everyone else is doing. And do you know what? I read other blogs and bushcraft postings and notice a lot of people looking forward to getting away from things for a while to get peace n quiet! Guess I'm not alone in these thoughts then. Well I got a nice solo trip planned new years eve-ish sometime, gonna find some nice woods some place and spend the night out. After all I have new gear to try out :-)<br /><br />For anyone reading this: Have a goood new year! Happy Wandering.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-5342891190849157202006-12-18T11:56:00.000+00:002006-12-19T11:53:35.767+00:00Tarp fun!<p>OK managed to get a few bits on fun in this weekend, playing with a small poncho/Tarp and got some pictures as well. Also some thoughts about fire starting with flint steel n birch bark.</p><p>Been looking for a nice place to play for a while now, and eventually picked some woods near a park, its deep and dense enough so I can set things up without being disturbed or alarming anyone after about a 10 minute walk in.</p><p>The tarp itself is a standard Bristish Army poncho (nylon) I got with a load of gear a while back, never really had changce to play with it until this weekend. I also picked up some paracord (via of eBay) to be used as well as 2 trekking poles I have. Bearing in mind I coul duse eth tree's I still wanted to incorporate a pole for practise incase I am ever wthout tree around me. Basic pitch ways were as follows:</p><ul><br /><li>Basic A-frame</li><li>Lean to + Modified Lean to</li><li>Flying Diamond</li><li>Any other variations I can think of.</li></ul><p><insert></p><p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_H95XkZLTgrjFSc_5V43Tpz4jl8iJfNRHBFAbwbpJcj78-oMSl_JGF4ZlVO2YM1x4VGchHiynmX0Jm8KtwH3BOW378mpuQ6xuHEAsTB1WCAxPCuvndtj6eHUPycq_JAIxFPWR9bGIXySC/s1600-h/tarp_leanmod.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5009840981905825058" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_H95XkZLTgrjFSc_5V43Tpz4jl8iJfNRHBFAbwbpJcj78-oMSl_JGF4ZlVO2YM1x4VGchHiynmX0Jm8KtwH3BOW378mpuQ6xuHEAsTB1WCAxPCuvndtj6eHUPycq_JAIxFPWR9bGIXySC/s320/tarp_leanmod.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p><p>Lean-to, easist one to set up, takes no time what so ever and requires the least amount of kit (could get away with 1 cord and 2 pegs)</p><p>Modified Lean-to (Shown) brings hood out so head room is increased. Not too keen on this one as its exposed from sides and front, little heat would stay in this. Good prtection from wind n rain if pitched facing away from it.</p><br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloc83WzLdUw8xnK3W6vp6e9QDGSZJRERJppHBnBg8tY6LB2l8yR211NhqxJlU9vWr7u-RFrTfMydY4nuH_IQxvs1MGtH8CR_rpehdu3qeikRxZSGuuWY9GgOrYUZmw2WMBt5_SbXjNq4v/s1600-h/tarp_afrm.jpg"><strong><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5009855344276462898" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhloc83WzLdUw8xnK3W6vp6e9QDGSZJRERJppHBnBg8tY6LB2l8yR211NhqxJlU9vWr7u-RFrTfMydY4nuH_IQxvs1MGtH8CR_rpehdu3qeikRxZSGuuWY9GgOrYUZmw2WMBt5_SbXjNq4v/s320/tarp_afrm.jpg" border="0" /></strong></a><strong>A-frame</strong>, one of my favourites nice protection if the weather turns really bad, though a tarp of this size isn't that good for extended periods, you can fit one person in with no gear, so better make something to extend this or stow your gear in (big dry bag?). Entry/Exit would need to be setup with the pole further out.</p><br /><br /><p><br /></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaoHkerutM6Q1bu6TmuMknwZqQ6aXP6bp_BCvCoBfHBLqj1KUZvtyJMPf67oPru8viMlTB9Bu5qoN_1uR9aiqhR5dCHge3ECy334s5hUorX1sz2umrsk-2pjD-_fpeDh1dRmbdRIIeESGd/s1600-h/tarp_flydiam1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5009857049378479426" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaoHkerutM6Q1bu6TmuMknwZqQ6aXP6bp_BCvCoBfHBLqj1KUZvtyJMPf67oPru8viMlTB9Bu5qoN_1uR9aiqhR5dCHge3ECy334s5hUorX1sz2umrsk-2pjD-_fpeDh1dRmbdRIIeESGd/s320/tarp_flydiam1.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Flying Diamond.</strong> This one is also pretty good, will need to test it out some though. The roof could of been tied high with an addition either tree or pole so make it more roomy. Good protection on most sides. I like this one.</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong></strong></p><p><strong>Fire!</strong> </p><p>While out it was quite a damp day, so I wanted to know if I could start the beginning of a fire what I had (Flint n knife) while using the materials around me. Damp is a major thing here in the UK so being good at starting a fire in this environment is ....well a handy thing! </p><p>I found some dead birch near by so I got a nice small section of bark to try and get something going with. I found it t be too damp so in my trouser pocket it went to hopefully dry out. While I was waiting I carried on messing with the tarp setups.</p><p>After about 20 minutes I got the birch out looking dryer, and proceeded to get some nice shavings up so i can try with the flint n steel. This proved to be sucessful, as I made a point on preperation, had lots of small strips ready to use as kindling. I found <strong>Preperation</strong> will give you the best chance of getting a <strong>fire started.</strong> Before this when I tried the fire started, but I did not have enough fuel on hand to get it going properly. Costly if your cold and tired. Need to practise this good habbit more.</p><p></p><p></p>ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-12780213741332566532006-12-12T09:48:00.000+00:002006-12-12T18:46:25.138+00:00Too busy of lateRight been a little thin on posting this past week or so, have a little business going and some work came my way, so Saturday night through to morning building 4 systems patching then installations, so weekend was kinda gone by the time I had chance to breath again as it were.<br /><br />Had a friend up visiting as well, so we were supposed to go climbing but the installation got in the way, ended up having a pub visit then to a big meal at a local Noodle Bar. Was good HUGE portions! I of course by then was cabbaged so wasn't the best of conversationists after a big meal sitting in my stomach..zZZZZZ<br /><br />Not ready for Christmas really, don't feel festive in the slightest, am looking forward to Christmas being over, kinda having a hard time in my life ATM. Oh its not all bad I have a few good things planned over that period, a nice Christmas day climb with my twin and friends, a route called "Christmas Crack (VS I think)" at Stannage (Peak District). Its pretty good, last year it was fancy dress and Mince pies went round as well as sherry. Big event in these parts. Plus dinner with my Mother and sister to look forward to as well.<br /><br />That reminds me there is a talk on with <em><strong>Ray Mears</strong></em> in Tumbridge Wells in London, Gonna get my arse down to that. Maybe get the odd thing signed too? After all he is the main man on bushcraft in the UK atleast perhaps further a field? <strong>Have you heard of him</strong>?, <strong>if so where do you live in the world?</strong><br /><br />Trying to get some time to split some wood I got awhile back so I can start on another spoon for carving. Will see how this weekend pans out. later.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-76057827877295545812006-12-04T06:09:00.000+00:002006-12-04T06:37:38.182+00:00Not much done...this weekend, I did manage to get a walk done with a good friend. I was looking for some woodland to practice the little skills I have in, but everything seems not so dense and very open, I don't think there are any real forest left in the UK now :-( maybe Scotland? I did managed to gather a little firewood though so at least I can practice some firelighting at home.<br /><br />Winter is upon us now here, plants are dying out and the amount of edible plants has been considerably reduced. The tree's are bare and winter winds try to rob you of any heat you have with each gust. Most of the wild life here is pretty much ready to hibernate having been frantically gathering and storing food caches for the on coming winter months. I can appreciate that more now as I try to find edible wild food. Autumn really is a time for gathering and storing food.<br /><br />Seems with the Bushcraft I'm learning I find myself appreciating nature more and indeed understanding it better. Am hoping to do some more work on my knives this week, need to order some wood and rivets for the handles and finish the edges. Then the next task will be getting sheath's made for them. Looking forward to it.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-46554202818337400692006-11-30T21:46:00.000+00:002006-11-30T22:05:50.135+00:00New gear!Bivvy Bags finally arrived! Got 2 brand spanking bags too, in DPM, which was a surprise, was expecting Olive green but can't complain. They are new Gore-tex bags as well. 7ft long too approx so I can shove kit to the bottom. Just need to try it out now. Rang the place up to be kind and say thanks for sending them but complained about the torn gear, "grade 1" my arse!!<br /><br />Right no plans what so ever for the weekend just looking forward to some reading. Hey maybe some climbing too. Will see.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-21842571327634660452006-11-28T21:12:00.000+00:002006-11-28T21:29:24.125+00:00Gear and books have arrived!Was kinda taken back, my books arrived I ordered AND the gear I was waiting for also arrived, minus the bivvy bags but it has been promised for next week. Am quite impressed with the water proofs, all Gore-tex and they fit OK too. Sleeping system is also impressive, looks comfy as chuff, can't wait to test it, its supposed to sleep down to -20 degree's C so will see, first frost I'll be outside testing.. heh<br /><br />Books are "<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Food-Free-Collins-Richard-Mabey/dp/0007183038/sr=8-18/qid=1164748604/ref=sr_1_18/026-1257278-2999667?ie=UTF8&s=books">Collins gem: Food for Free</a> " and "<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Call-Wild-Guy-Grieve/dp/0340898240/sr=1-1/qid=1164748667/ref=sr_1_1/026-1257278-2999667?ie=UTF8&s=books">Call of the wild</a>" by Guy Grieve.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/1600/foodforfree_.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/200/foodforfree_.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/1600/callofthewild.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/200/callofthewild.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Had a flick through both, and am looking forward to reading both of them. One reference the other handbook.<br /><br />Had to stay late at work though to patch a server, so was late home. But am happy, have gear and some books to read. :-)<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-65779036023869221722006-11-27T11:33:00.000+00:002006-11-27T22:13:26.481+00:00Weekend of funRight had some things to do over the weekend, one of which was head down to London to see a friend and go climbing either indoor or outdoor depending on weather of course.<br /><br />It wanged it down Sunday so indoors at the castle it was. Not a bad place to go 3 floors of climbing walls and bouldering sections too. Good routes, and cheap food too. What more can you ask for?<br /><br />Saturday I got some time to make some nettle cordage from local nettle sources (ie rough land), Made about a meter out of 3 or 4 nettles. Its quite an easy procedure just use the stem only, so strips leaves then crush the stem, after which open the now crushed flat stem and bend it pith up so it snaps, peel pith out and you are left with flat fibres. These you roll and twine into longer cords, easy really. (Will add a picture later.) Not an exact description really of how to do it, more an overview. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/1600/877179/nettlecord.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/320/19922/nettlecord.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Enjoyed doing both, took my mind off things, been thinking alot about my issue of late, been hard for me of late.<br /><br /><strong>Gear wise</strong>: Ended up calling the supplier for the gear I ordered as I noticed the money was taken from my account, turns out that they hadn't even shipped it, waiting for Bivvy bags to come on later this week. Useless. Told them to ship what they had. Gah!ferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-82750564533408052342006-11-23T22:38:00.000+00:002006-11-23T23:03:48.528+00:00Crap Pheasant.. bleerrch!Bagged 2 Pheasants on a farmers market near where I live, got em both for 1.90 each. Which wasn't bad I thought. Wanted to learn to pluck draw and cook a wild game bird, so thought I'd dive into the deep end, which you will no doubt learn over time is what I do best heh.<br /><br />The Pheasant themselves were hung for 1 week so plenty of flavour (apparently) I plucked one and gutted it too, you wouldn't beleive how bad it smelt. Am guessing those people that eat it on a regular basis don't actually prepare it from scratch, if the did I'm sure as hell they would eat it less.<br /><br />OK got a wine casorole recipe to try out on it, I cut it up then browned it in a pan then into a dish with veg and wine as the sauce. An hour and half later out of the oven it came and straight onto a plate with baby potato's. <b>It tasted like crap.</b> The wine flavour was over powering and the Pheasant was tasty, but I swear I could still smell the stink from the drawing stage.<br /><br />Next one is getting roasted in the oven, wrapped in bacon to keep the moisture in.<br /><br />Am still waiting for the gear I ordered as well as 2 books too from <a href="www.amazon.co.uk">Amazon</a>. Breifly I ordered 2 Gore-tex Bivvy bags, water proof jacket n trousers (Gore-tex also), some Light weight trousers, a ponch/basha type thing and a sleep system too. Which I was informed can be used down to -20 degrees C. Will arrive either this week (Tomorrow) or next sometime. So waiting again.<br /><br />Weekend things, is try a cattail root, and use the head as a natural tinder. Am actually thinking of writing a paper on fire lighting, for my reference but you never know may publish it so to speak.<br /><br />Right bed for me am tired now.<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6008265402634058939.post-56965153566109707402006-11-23T14:07:00.000+00:002006-11-23T20:00:38.606+00:00Mushroom anyone?Well on one of the lunch time walks with my friend Rob, it was raining but its not often I enjoy a walk of that type, think sometimes a little discomfort helps put things into perspective, its a nice circular walk which is surprising considering its a bit of an industrial estate where I work, but with a brisk 10 minute walk you can be in nice fresh peaceful woodland. I try and do it a few times a week, sometimes I manage, other times... well I try and do it. Clears my head.<br /><br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/1600/515155/mushroom1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/320/40062/mushroom1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Right on the way back I spotted some mushrooms growing in the grass, normally I hate mushrooms, can't stand them in the slightest. Never have, but I keep promising myself that I would actually one day force myself to eat one and then get used to the flavour. Well anyway I picked one and took it back for identification, problem being I have no idea what it was. Guides say if you don't know leave it alone. So some rather intense googling later .. I still have no idea what it is!! Autumn is the time of year for mushrooms, a real harvest for thoughs that know what they are after and really do enjoy them. Well here, what do you think it is?<br /><a href="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/1600/865360/mushroom2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/x/blogger2/7355/733430835282477/320/937598/mushroom2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />OK, smells alright considering, found on grass land next to a bush, possibly Hawthorne? They were singular in a row. Width is about 9 cm. <br />Answers on a postcard please!<br /><br />ferrolferrolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17822610538571757404noreply@blogger.com0