Was going to do an overnight with my new WBBB XLC. I also made a poncho liner underquilt last night that I wanted to try out. But the forecast called for rain so I decided to just try to stretch out in it for a few hours at a nearby park. I also have a homemade tarp made of plastic painter's dropcloth that I wanted to see if my XLC would fit comfortably under.
By the time I got out, it was drizzling. Last time I had the tarp out, I had kind of quickly rolled it up, tying the lines together in some semblance of a hank that was, in reality a ball. Now, as I stand in the gradually increasing rain, I realize that the ball is really a knot. A knot of unknown material, but one that is soaking up water and is literally impossible to untangle. Had I not known better, I would have thought the lines were fused. Meanwhile the rain has become a downpour. I decide that I'll just cut the lines long enoug and get them staked down.
But then I remember that I have nothing to cut them with. And I can't break it. Or bite it. And the park is pristine--nothing to improvise with. Finally I separate the lines into strands and get to gnawing. I get the sides staked down and sit under the tarp to catch my breath. It was almost pleasant, for a moment, listening to the rain pour down. And because the tarp is clear, I could see it hitting.
I then decide that I can't really risk getting my hammock and new underquilt wet under these conditions and, when there is a break in the weather, I beat feet for home.
So. Gotta get better lines AND learn to stow them properly. And not be so lazy as to not do it. I'm just glad the same didn't happen while out in the woods. I was soaked. It's always something!IMG_4481 2.jpg
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