ain't no mountain high enough, well.......

I have yet to meet my friends at the base of their dumb, old mountain for their Saturday morning hike. My latest (yet valid) excuse of a hurt knee is heeling and unless something else happens I will have to meet them bright and early. (But, why so bright and early?)

Since summer has finally arrived I will need to bring water along with me and, I think, a pair of walking poles. They are supposed to reduce stress on major joints, making me faster and less fatigued. As an added bonus, I will be able to lightly whack a smart mouthed companion, if necessary.

The "waist pack" (this isn't a fanny pack because it is far more attractive) can hold my keys, pepper spray (for wild animals, as well as, my smart mouthed companions) and cell phone (so I can easily call for helicopter pick up). I think if I wear it to the side, in a carefree and whimsical fashion I won't look so tacky.