Cocoon

We're getting antsy to be out walking, hiking, camping and just getting out. Yesterday we put up our new hammock in the yard. It's an ultralight that weighs less than 2 # with a rainfly and a bug net. It was ever so comfortable. Paul will need a bigger one, though- he pretty much filled it up. We're planning on going out Chena Hot Springs Rd or down to Riley Creek Campground in Denali in a few weeks to test out our 15 degree sleeping bag and the hammock. Most things we've read say that we'll need more since the sleeping bag will compress in a hammock, so we're exploring other options, like slinging gear or a closed cell pad underneath, or using a silk bag liner or some such. We haven't done much cold weather camping, just the normal conditions of hiking in Alaska (snow anytime) so this should be a fun challenge- lightweight and still warm.

Today I read a 1999 excerpt from a speech by Charlton Heston about the cultural war that is being raged in the US. I read it in the News Miner editorial section. If you think our freedoms are being eroded, read this speech. Whether you like him or not, whether you agree with the NRA agenda or not, this speech (from 9 years ago) really resonates.

Another thought provoking moment that occurred before noon today was a conversation with a new dad who was born and raised in Croatia. He said that in Croatia, children are given freedom and responsibility at a much younger age and get the urge towards misbehavior satisfied at a younger age (drinking, smoking dope, etc). Then, they become more productive adults as teenagers rather than prolonging experimentation into their 20s. Wow, students of developmental psychology might argue that this may be the case for those that survive. I hardly think letting kids stay home alone when they are elementary students aid in their growth and development. I do say though that parents need to let kids make choices as soon as they can, and then face the natural consequences of their actions without expecting others to take the blame or pick up the pieces. Interesting and worth more thought.