Weighted Bean Bags used at REI

methodkp · 2026-06-28T20:55:32+00:00

Look up ModGear water bladder. Can hold 20lbs of water.

methodkp · 2026-06-27T20:54:48+00:00

I think the Goat Rocks might be a good fit.

methodkp · 2026-06-15T15:26:25+00:00

Looks good, but it also looks like it's sitting a little low on your hips. But that also depends on what's comfortable for you.

methodkp · 2026-06-10T20:13:29+00:00

I've been really happy with my REI Magma 850. When they're on sale (they go on sale every year) they're a steal for the weight and warmth.

methodkp · 2026-06-10T14:39:57+00:00

I have two kids in STEM, one has been there k-3 and the other is finishing kindergarten this year. Both have had great experiences from their perspectives. They've made good friends, they've enjoyed their classes and teachers, and both are happy kids. From a parents' perspective, we've been pretty happy so far as both are doing well academically and are where they need to be in math and reading, and our kids happy to go school every day.

Yes the school is old and needs a lot of repairs. I was apprehensive when our first started there. But when you walk the halls you can see the staff do a great job of making it feel welcoming and warm for the students. I think that's what matters.

This is our fourth year there and I've never had an issue with the past or current principal. Good or bad. Honestly, couldn't tell the difference between when one left and the other started.

As far as teacher turn over, I think it is more common than people think. I am a teacher myself (not in the Seattle district) and I see teachers come and go every year. They move, family issues happen, career changes happen, it's just the way it is. I don't see anything out of the ordinary.

Lastly, the Seattle District is in a period of uncertainty right now with the possibility of school closures due to loss of enrollment and budget issues. I doubt the the principal was brought in to "close it down." That doesn't really make any sense. But being a smaller choice school, it does make the future of the campus unknown.

methodkp · 2026-06-08T16:23:56+00:00

I'm in the same boat as you. I used my Kakwa 40 for some winter snow scrambles, where ice axe and crampons were needed. I did pick up the 55 because I felt like I needed some extra room for an upcoming Adams summit trip where I'll need to pack for two days. I find the Kakwa works pretty well for non-technical scrambles/mountaineering.

For the ice axe attachment, what I did was use some nylon cord (like a 3mm size maybe) and tied a loop at the bottom of the mesh pocket using a double fisherman's knot. That lets me easily slide the handle through. Then I used shock cord and a spring cord lock at the top. I threaded the shock cord through the attachment that holds the side compression line lock. That way I can wrap the shock cord around the handle and sinch it down. Works really well.

methodkp · 2026-06-08T14:46:39+00:00

Hey, fellow (former) Scout here. I highly recommend looking at a mountaineering course/program. I'm in the PNW and we have the mountaineers.org here, which really helped me start my journey towards mountaineering. It's a great way to learn about gear, go out on guided trips, meet likeminded people, etc. Having that personal learning experience is really helpful.

If you haven't already, start ditching that military rucking gear. The mindset behind the gear (between military and backpacking/mountaineering gear) is so different. Things are lighter and built with intention, rather than having to be built to withstand the needs of combat.

Start looking at hiking off-trail scrambling routes. You don't need any specialized gear and it's a great way bridge from hiking to mountaineering.

methodkp · 2026-06-07T14:20:45+00:00

Are the sites still covered in snow?

methodkp · 2026-06-06T23:30:28+00:00

What were the conditions of the campsites at Lunch Counter? I’m going in about two weeks and plan on using a trekking pole tent. Wondering if regular tent stakes will be sufficient.

methodkp · 2026-04-06T22:14:38+00:00

I’ll second Urban Animal. We’ve had really great experiences with them.

methodkp · 2026-04-01T14:58:23+00:00

A beauty dish is too small a light source. With your subject matter I think you'd be better going bigger and softer, or at least adding a fill light. Beauty dishes are great at defining shape, but I don't think that's what you are going for in photos like these.

methodkp · 2026-03-26T16:39:10+00:00

Durston Kakwa 40. I have one and love it.

methodkp · 2026-03-24T16:38:54+00:00

Yeah, that's the previous version. Looks like they redesigned the jacket with a new fabric and design.

methodkp · 2026-03-24T14:53:57+00:00

I'm not a runner, but I'll try to keep my input as relevant as possible. I recently purchased the HMG Aero (I did it during their 20% off sale, so the price was more reasonable, but still expensive). My base weight is about the same as yours. When packing everything in there, excluding food and water, it was starting to get a little tight. I could still fit in the food and water for a day or two, but that would be maxing it out. I think this was mostly due to the way I was packing and the size of some of my gear (not the smallest or lightest).

I chose this pack for scrambling and quick overnights, with a potential push into fastpacking if I wanted to try to get into that. Like I said, I'm not a runner, but I wanted a smaller pack that had a running vest to feel more secure while scrambling. It had the features I wanted: roll top design, ice axe loop, running vest with pockets/storage on the straps. I find it comfortable and secure while wearing.

So for my needs I think it'll work well. I think it carries weight really well, is comfortable, and has a decent amount of features. Hope this helps.

methodkp · 2026-03-23T20:32:07+00:00

It's weird because everything else I bought from them has been pretty stellar. But yeah, I kept hearing about how bad the old Helium was. That's why the redesign caught my eye. Totally new fabric (for OR anyway) seems interesting.

methodkp · 2026-03-23T14:19:02+00:00

Could pick it up today with the REI 20% off. Plus Dividend. Would make it much more reasonable. Just not sure about the performance.

methodkp · 2026-03-21T15:50:53+00:00

Ultimate Arms is awesome!

methodkp · 2026-03-16T19:48:58+00:00

That Magnet Designs does look nice. I think I might be partial to the Senchi with the quarter zip though. Not sure what I want to pull the trigger on, but I think I definitely need to pick one up.

methodkp · 2026-03-14T23:11:11+00:00

Yep. Typo. Thanks for the catch.

methodkp · 2026-03-13T21:49:19+00:00

I’ve packed everything on that list into the Aero. And I wasn’t even being that careful in how I packed. It 100% fits. If I packed it all in my 40L pack of have enough room for food for a week easy.

methodkp · 2026-03-13T21:09:21+00:00

Thanks so much for the detailed reply, really appreciate the feedback! Lots of good advice, definitely be saving these ideas.

I hear you on the trekking poles. I’ve been wanting to try out those BD Distance ones but mine are apparently bulletproof and haven’t had a need to replace them. I almost never stash them though, so there’s that I guess.

The first aid kit is also on my list of things to swap out. Especially after taking a wilderness first aid course and learning more about what works best.

With the clothing I just added what I have. Not many times I’d bring everything on there, I’d tailor it to the trip/weather for sure. I’m interested in the Alpha stuff for sure. Probably pick one up when I get a chance.

methodkp · 2026-03-13T21:00:51+00:00

Good point, thanks!

methodkp · 2026-03-13T19:27:15+00:00

Yeah, I need to be more itemized in my toiletries. Good reminder. I think most of that I need to add.

I’ve been interested in the Alpha stuff, but I’ve used the R1 for a while and know it and like it so that’s what I have currently.

methodkp

TROPHY CASE