[JRandomFreeper]

I've read a lot of emigrant's guides to the western US. (including the one the Donner party used, I quoted it in my sourdough paper, actually).

The pioneers were somewhat more hardy than modern Americans in some respects, but they appreciated their creature comforts, too. A damp bandana draped across the neck helps to cool the body and is very inexpensive. An unglazed terra-cotta jug kept in the shade keeps water cool by evaporation.

I love the stuff at REI, but there are lots of field expedient options that don't cost much.

Tell me what you want and I'll see if I can find an expedient.

/john

[MozartLover]

Well it's official.

Private E-2 Evan MozartLover was sworn in this afternoon in the city of Milwaukee in the great state of Wisconsin. He will be serving his country and his state in the Wisconsin Army National Guard; his unit is based in Madison.

He finally (after changing his mind several times) decided on a specialty. He will be serving in an infantry unit as a medic.

He begins his weekends next month and will leave Nov. 4th for basic training, followed by nine(I think) weeks of medic training.

I am as proud as can be.