The Biggest Bag in the World

In my research for this trip the subject of what bags to take has been a tricky one. Lots of references to different sizes and types, waterproof covers, adjustable straps, 30 litre capacity (I thought this was how you measured liquids?) etc etc. My mind has been well and truly boggled! Essentially it boils down to the fact that I need two. The first a smaller daysack to carry up the mountain with the day to day stuff such as fleeces, waterproofs, snacks, water and camera. The second to contain things like my sleeping bag, clothes and other items only needed at the end of the day. This bag is carried up by the amazing sounding porters who seem (from most videos and pictures I have seen) to carry them on their heads! This was the bag that was proving a dilemma. I have a nice daysack that will fit in all the daily essentails and I have been using  this on my walk to work so have got the straps adjusted just right. The second was proving tricky until along came a generous gift from a family friend - the biggest rucksack in the world!!

Six pockets and counting!

The photo really doesn't do it justice, I think you could smuggle children in it! In addition it has at least six different sections (I keep finding more!) and I keep planning what to put in each. I suspect that I'll pack some things and only find them on my return to the UK or spend most of my time searching for them - maybe I should create a map for the bag?! The most excitement I had was finding the attached waterproof cover stored in its own handy pocket. I may never find it again but at least I know it's there!

You'll spot me in the dark!

The mega bag also has an unbelievable number of straps, clips, toggles and buckles making it fully adjustable. The only problem is that I have no idea how to adjust it or what each one is for! I am going to have to experiment and hope I don't do myself an injury! I have a vision of me proudly and correctly putting on the bag and connecting all the clips only to fall over backwards and lay stranded like a turtle while others laugh hysterically and take photos.

More clips and straps - help!!

Lots of adjustable straps - but how?

Oh well, maybe there's an instruction manual in one of the yet undiscovered pockets!

Healthy Eating?

So, it's now less than four months until the big trek. Excitement is building as are some muscles (not very big but undeniably there!). Dele has created a beautiful spreadsheet with our exercise plan which is both inspiring and terrifying.

Last week we decided that we would start eating more healthily to go along with our exercise regime. Not a diet, just more fruit and veg and less chocolate (me) and crisps (Dele). I don't know how she's doing but I'm struggling a little (ahem). Yesterday I demolished a roast dinner followed by apple pie and cream (thanks, Dad) plus an entire Easter egg (Dad again)  two hot cross buns (thanks, Mum) and two flapjacks (thanks, Uncle Mick). On the positive side I did eat a banana!

All that remains is the mug!

Never mind, I'll be better today I thought. One hot chocolate, a pain au chocolat and a strawberry milkshake later I realised I had hit another epic fail. I have had no fruit or veg today unless you count the strawberry sauce on my milkshake?!

Does strawberry sauce count as one of your five a day?

Obviously Monday is a bad day to start a healthy eating plan! Tuesday is clearly the day to begin...