(Continued for Part 1. This concludes the article.)
I was consistent with daily hikes using them for recon practice, making maps, taking notes of locations and observing any nearby people. Judging who I thought may be friends or foes. I did take note of two males in their 20’s who appeared fairly intoxicated early in the afternoon. I hiked for the benefits of physical exercise and enjoyed the quite beauty of the land.
There were several memorable hikes. The day time temperatures were now in the upper 80’s. I wore Timberline hiking boots and stripped down to shorts. Finally found some warm sunshine. Walking alone along Granite mountain, poking the brush, crevices and in the shadows with my walking stick before stepping or reaching in with a hand. Mostly because I read to do that.
One poke hit something soft that made a rattle. Startled, I immediately shifted my feet back and away from the noise. I kept all my pressure on that soft body with my walking stick. My heart was racing. I never saw the snake but hearing & feeling it was plenty. Again, more prayers of an isolated snake encounter.
This could have been life-threatening. At any time, a snake bite is a game changer. I’ve carried a snake bite kit with me for years just because, well because, I’m a Prepper. I am so thankful that I didn’t need it. Prior to leaving Montana, for the first time ever, I actually took my snake bite kit apart and applied it to my arm as a mock trial. My friend’s 12 year old son got a great giggle at how much of my skin was pulled up through the syringe. He also was the one who showed me how to set up my butane camping stove quicker.
I constructed my walking stick several years ago out of 1 1/4 inch PVC pipe, drilled a hole in the distal end cap and glued a short Philips screwdriver with the shaft protruding out. It acts as a probe, weapon, even a screw driver. I also have made several with a traditional rubber end cap for pavement and smooth surfaces.
I fill my walking stick with glow sticks, fishing line, lures and AAA batteries. It has a leather strap with add’l cordage for the handle and it’s wrapped in camo duct tape. The end cap, by the handle of course is not sealed to access my internal supplies. It’s inexpensive and a practical way to carry supplies.
I kept traveling South towards Phoenix, camping and applying for jobs. I had several unsuccessful phone interviews. I utilized several public libraries to fax resumes, charge my phone, laptop and batteries Check out your library, amazing resources, free or inexpensive with very helpful employees.Continue reading“My One Month TEOTWAWKI Road Test – Part 2, by Maui Dan”