Hometown: Muscatine, IA

Major: History (Ed.)

Why I wanted to go on the trip: It was a new experience since I have never camped for real before. I also wanted to go because I wanted class credit and it would be a nice experience to share with Elaine. The main reason for wanting to go was to try something I would never otherwise do.

Area of expertise: Rivers, Great Protector/Wielder of the $7 machete.

Most enjoyable hike and why: Climbing the 14er. I really don’t like hiking, but I liked this one because it gave me the greatest sense of accomplishment. Either that or hiking out.

Most beautiful sight of the trip: It's a tie between Book’s forlorn look and frazzled morning hair, or Raymond's burly chest as he arose from slumber.

Funniest moment of the trip: Announcing to the group that I had diarrhea, or else hanging the bear.

The most important thing I learned about backpacking: That it just takes a little planning, a lot of desire, and anyone can do it. Also, it isn’t nearly as dangerous as I thought it would be.

The most important thing I learned about myself: Nothing - I already knew I was the greatest. Perhaps though, I did learn that I could overcome my fears by confronting them, such as sleeping in the out of doors.

Favorite thing about the van rides: I would say winning cash, but that only happened once, so my favorite part was probably playing cards and ridiculing others from the back with Elaine and Joe/Kristin.

Favorite overnight stay: Baptist Church and staying up late with Holly and Karen.

Would I do it again and why: I would do it over, but I am not sure I would do it again. I probably am not an outdoors person, but I would go on a shorter trip with these people again.