My first solo camping trip to Harriman State Park in NY. Here are some notes and observations that probably only make sense to myself:

• Cook from upwind to avoid flames.

• Learn how to simmer. Cleaning burnt food from your only stove that’s also your bowl and mug is not fun.
• Make a cozy for your mug/pot. It will keep your food and drink warm while protecting your fingers.
• Weigh your food next time. Therefore you know how much you brought and ate.
• Aqua mira works! First time I drank water from streams and lakes.
• Ziplocks are great, smaller ones would have helped.
• Although it is delicious and comforting, green tea before bed is a bad idea. (You knew this, Eric.)
• Learning compass skills is essential. Next on the list: How to adjust for magnetic declination and how to triangulate.
• Sunlight stayed out a lot longer than expected. Trust the sun, not your watch.
• Humans are dirtier and scarier than nature.
• Be smarter and more patient when planning a route. Rushing into decisions and mistakes are costly for time and energy.
• Pay more attention to map contours and features.
• Advice isn’t real until you experience it.
• A heavier throw sack for your bear bag is easier to throw. Make sure there’s enough slack line and be patient to avoid tangles.