New Perspectives

[bdpalace]

One thing I've noticed since switching to a hammock is that my perspective on enjoying the outdoors had changed significantly. One of the biggest changes is that I almost feel cheated if it doesn't rain...not some cataclysmic, Noah's gathering the wood type rain, but an afternoon shower in the summer is ideal. I know as a "tenter" such talk was blasphemous, but I find enjoyment in sitting under my tarp, sipping some coffee and listening to the rain.

My backpacking pals (yet to be converted) think I'm absolutely crazy because, other than the aforementioned deluge, I'm not a slave to the weather forecast and will get out in almost any weather.

So, does anyone else have any newfound appreciation for the outdoors that can be attributed to being elevated above the throngs of the underlings?

[ref103]

yes. and with the tarp pitched a little more open or tying one side like an awning there is plenty of room to cook or just sit in the hammock like a chair and enjoy the woods. i am a fan of a small fire though so ideally i like a nice day/evening with a little rain while i'm sleeping. but some rain in the forecast won't keep me indoors.

[Chattooga]

I used to think the lack of sleep and sore back was a necessary evil part of camping. Since getting off the ground, I am actually sleeping and waking up feeling good. No more wishing for sleep while waiting for the dawn.

[Perkolady]

I know as a "tenter" such talk was blasphemous, but I find enjoyment in sitting under my tarp, sipping some coffee and listening to the rain.

*smiling and nodding head...*

I really like how it's simpler to break camp now. I can take more time sitting in my hammock, drinking coffee, under the tarp, in between packing up everything else while staying dry.

I greatly appreciate not having to roll up that wet, mucky tent that weighs a ton. Things like this give me a much cheerier attitude in the morning, which helps me to be more in tune with my surroundings.

[WV]

So, does anyone else have any newfound appreciation for the outdoors that can be attributed to being elevated above the throngs of the underlings?

I look around more as I hike, noting east-facing slopes, stands of trees spaced well for hanging, prevailing winds, animal trails.

[HappyCamper]

I never really looked forward to sleeping while out on the trail. Now I do!

[Cannibal]

I've noticed I've got more room in my bedroom with the bed gone.

[Knighthorse]

More room with the bed gone. ABSOLUTELY! Mine is attached via black diamond hotwires. Unhook one, clip to other side and the room seems bigger.

[oldgringo]

I never really looked forward to sleeping while out on the trail. Now I do!

That.

BH (before hangin'), time spent in the sack was just a necessary, uncomfortable adjunct to my camping experiences. Now, it's all good.

[SuperTramp]

yep! i agree totally with everything that has been said.i have said this before but i am still the only hammocker i know and they think i'm crazy.problem though is that i go on alot of fishing trips with my brothers (i am the baby of 4 boys) and i really don't want to go fishing like i did-i just want to play with my twigstoves and lay in my hammock.i think what i love the most is that you become part of the enviroment rather than closing yourself off to it