#coleman tents

[getoutofthisplace]

Dear Gus & Magnus,

I didn't take a picture today, so here's one from eight years ago, a month before I proposed marriage. If I remember correctly, we decided on a whim late that afternoon to go camping. We drove out to Maumelle Park, made some Boca burgers over the fire -- your mom impressed me by adding a fried egg to most of our meals at that time. I was into high-end hard ciders back then, so I brought along a four-pack of Crispin. After it got dark we made s'mores.

We had so much fun that I remember thinking we should camp more, but the next time we slept in a tent was our wedding night. And I think the only other time we've done so is when we slept with Gus in Nene's front yard. We should do that again this fall.

Dad.

Little Rock, Arkansas. 8.28.2015 - 6.43pm. (Posted 8.28.2023.)

[retropopcult]

August 1956

[queen-daya]

Carwheeler Aesthetic

[cam5491]

Coleman Sundome Camping Tent, 2/3/4/6 Person Dome Tent with Snag-Free Poles for Easy Setup in Under 10 Mins, Included Rainfly Blocks Wind & Rain, Tent for Camping, Festivals, Backyard, Sleepovers

[lifeofloon]

Upgrading to a big boys tent for this year's camping adventures! ⛺ ⛰️🥾

[outdoorovernights]

Coleman Flatwoods Tent 4P TGT C002 Review

Are you searching for the perfect tent to accompany you on your outdoor adventures? The Coleman Flatwoods Tent 4P TGT C002 might just be what you need to elevate your camping experience. Let’s journey together through this in-depth review, discussing what makes it stand out and why it could be the right fit for your camping needs. Features of Coleman Flatwoods Tent 4P TGT C002 Every adventurous…

[garymillar]

Love is patient, love is kind, love doesn't boast or force itself. God's voice is a whisper, and here we discover that love is heard less as the sound of a revival tent and more like the sound of breathing.

Strahan Coleman, Beholding

[schemmentisbaby]

@janeyseymour I KEEP MY PROMISES

Emergency Contact

Okay so, I was inspired by the episode where Mel falls, and honestly I just know if she had a wife, Barbara would’ve called her SO FAST. So this was born.

Enjoy.

You grin as you stare at your phone, caller id clearly reading ‘Abbott Elementary.’

“Mel, if you forgot to charge your phone again, we need to just get an extra charger to leave at the school.” You tease as you shut the door behind you.

“Hi, is this y/n?” Your smile drops at the unfamiliar voice and you stop in your tracks

“This is she.” Your words are tentative, voice shaky as you continue “can I help you?”

“Hi this is Janine Teagues from Abbott Elementary, I have it down here that you’re Melissa Schemmenti’s emergency contact?”

“Yes, that’s right.” You shake your head as you continue walking to your car.

“Well, I’m sorry to bother you, but there’s been an accident, can you come to the school?”

Your heart stops as you take in her words.

Melissa’s been in an accident? What happened, and why is your wife not calling you herself?

“I’ll be there in 15.” You spit the words out and hang up the phone, not willing to waste any more time on pleasantries when Melissa’s hurt.

You make the drive in silence, eyes focusing on the road, as you try to calm your racing heart.

Your tires squeal as you turn into the Abbott Elementary parking lot, haphazardly parking before running into the school.

“Whoa- where ya going?” A tall woman stops you as she steps out of the office off to the side of the area that bypasses the locked doors.

“Uh hi. I got a call from Janine Teagues stating that uh Melissa Schemmenti was in an accident?” The words are rushed, coming out at the same speed at which the thoughts are racing through your head.

“Janine called you? Damn, you must be the emergency contact.”

“Yes.”

“Alright then, I’m principal Coleman, I believe Melissa’s in the nurses office, you ever been here before?”

“I’ve helped Mel set up her room a few times, nurse’s office is right before the library isn’t it?”

“You got that right. Need an escort?” She says with a wink as she hands you a visitors pass.

“Nope I got it.” The words are barely out of your mouth before you take off in a sprint down the hallway.

You fly past the library, and rush into the little area that acts as a makeshift waiting room for the nurses office.

“Did you have to sprint in heels?”

At the sound of your wife’s voice, you stop.

“You’re okay?” Your voice is tentative, and you can’t help but hold your breath.

“Ankle hurts like a bitch, but I’m okay. Jesus, hon you look like you’ve seen a ghost, you good?”

“Am I good? Melissa Ann Caterina Schemmenti… Why on earth did your coworker call me and say nothing except for needing your emergency contact.”

“Janine called you?” Your wife’s voice is sharp and you shoot her a glare.

“Yes she did. But why didn’t you?” You sit next to her on the small cot and rub your face. “Jesus Mel, that was like the call I got when Dad died. It scared the fuck out of me.”

“Watch your mouth babe, you’re still in an elementary school.”

“Melissa.” The way you say her name lets her know that she’s got to explain quickly or she’s in trouble.

“Okay- I may have fallen this morning. It was nothing really, just bruised my ankle and aggravated my back, but I promise I’m fine.”

“What were you doing when you fell?”

“Walking. I tripped over some rock on the sidewalk, but it’s okay I didn’t even spill my coffee.”

“Mel… you’re injured and the only thing you care about is your coffee?”

“Hey! My wife made me that coffee.” She teases before nudging your shoulder with hers.

“WIFE?!”

The shout that could’ve only come from Janine makes you both jump.

“Jesus kid, what the hell?”

“You have a wife?”

Janine’s shout must’ve carried down the hall as three more people come rushing in behind her.

Melissa presses her fingers to her temple and sighs as she looks at you.

“Yes. I have a wife. Did you have to announce it like you were Jim Gardner!?”

“You never told us you had a wife?!? You told us you were married, but to a woman?!”

“You thought I had a husband?”

You laugh at the confusion in your wife’s voice.

Janine nods enthusiastically, hands flying with the speed of her voice.

“Well, yeah. You never said wife, just always said ‘spouse’ or ‘better half’- I just assumed they were a man-“

“Kid- I tried men, it didn’t stick.” Melissa interrupts while shaking her head “anyway-, I never hid anything. You didn’t ask.”

“Wait- are you saying, you’re like… a lesbian?”

“Jesus Christ Jacob, what tipped you off? Was it the wife?” Melissa replies dryly.

Before he can respond, Barbara, your wife’s best friend steps in the room.

“Melissa’s personal life is her own, she’s under no obligation to share. However, how are you y/n?” She says to you with a smile.

You smile warmly at Barbara, thankful to see at least one face you recognized.

“I’m alright now that I know this one’s alright. It’s good to see you again, Barb.”

“Wait?!? You knew?!” Janine exclaims.

“Of course I knew, I was at the wedding.”

Silence fills the small room, the weight of Barbara’s confession settling over the group. Janine stares in open mouthed as she processes this new revelation.

“You were at the wedding?” She finally sputters out, voice tinged with disbelief.

Barbara raises a perfectly arched eyebrow.

“Janine, I choose not to gossip about coworkers, but yes I was at Melissa’s wedding. Her wife is a lovely woman and I have been honored to call them both my friends for the many years we have known each other.”

Melissa snorts from her spot on the cot, shaking her head.

“Lovely, huh? You haven’t heard her curse at the tv during an Eagles game.”

“Baby, that was a shitty call and you know it!”

You cross your arms, but smile softly, your anger and adrenaline melting away at the sight of Melissa’s smirk.

Jacob clears his throat, looking between the two of you.

“Well, I for one, think this is wonderful. These kids deserve representation, and it’s important for them to know that love comes in all forms. This is the stuff we should teach in classrooms.”

Melissa shoots an award winning glare at the young man “Jacob, you make me a poster and you’ll meet Edith Houghton.”

“Got it! No poster.”

Barbara sighs before giving Jacob a pointed look.

“Perhaps we should let y/n get Melissa home before you turn lunch into a sociology seminar.”

“Right! Sorry, Janine we should go. Melissa, rest well, let that wife of yours get you to a doctor.” Jacob leaves the room, pulling Janine with him

As soon as they leave, Melissa lets her head fall onto your shoulder and you kiss the top of her head softly as she groans

“Everyone will know by dismissal.”

“I know how you are about your personal life, but it’s good they know. They’ll forget about it eventually.”

“Too bad eventually isn’t now.”

“Like you won’t love bringing her to game night. Seriously though, y/n, I am glad you could come. Melissa did not want to call you herself.”

“Is that so?”

You turn to look at your wife, who is staring at the ground to avoid your gaze.

“Okay- I didn’t want to worry you. It’s just a bruised ankle and a stiff back. A few days of rest and I’ll be back to normal.”

You tilt your head, glaring at your wife.

“You’ll go to a doctor first to verify that. Also, you didn’t want to worry me? Mel, a stranger called me. And Janine at that. Had you just called me yourself, I would’ve panicked less.”

Melissa softens as she takes your hand.

“I’m sorry, hon. I should’ve called you myself. I love you, and I just didn’t want you worried.”

“I love you too, but I knew what I signed up for when I married you. Or did you forget who drove you to court when you threw corn at Ben Simmons?

“Y/n, why don’t you get her home? I’ll get Ava to watch over her class for the rest of the day.” Barb says as she leaves the room.

“Thanks, see you at dinner on Sunday.” You shoot the teacher a grin as you help your wife stand up.

“So… a rock?”

“It was a big rock.” Melissa insists, cheeks pink.

“Sure it was.” You shake your head, grabbing your bags. “Let’s go, tough guy.”

[mariamermaid]

Joelle- Bucky Barnes Fanfiction

"With her performances she was able to cast a spell on the whole audience and for them, it seemed like a wonderful dream. And after the show they may talk about the exotic animals, but in the end, they'll think back who the girl behind a mask of make-up was. That was the Joelle-effect, which was experienced by Bucky Barnes and Steve Rogers on this evening."

Joelle Coleman lived, since she could remember, in the circus. There was nothing in this world that made her happier, than waking up with the first rays of sunshine and go exploring new places. In the year 1936 there was a time, where the circus la d'or rosé came to New York, where it pitched its tents and planned on staying there over the winter break. For exactly three months Jo would stay in New York and go hunt her little adventures. The ones who lived in the circus had a big family, because in the circus everybody stayed together. But as a consequence, it was hard to find new friends. Normally you'd spent only a few weeks in one city, then you'd leave again. Joelle knew that. Especially when she was younger it was hard for her not having real friends, but with time she accustomed. But destiny had decided different. The winter of 1936 in New York changes everything and her fate becomes entangled with that of the so-called Winter Soldier. What happens to their story which runs through the decades of time?

Chapter 1: 15th November 1936

Chapter 2: 16th November 1936

Chapter 3: 30th November 1936

Chapter 4: 1st December 1936

Chapter 5: 24th December 1936

Chapter 6: 28th January 1937

Chapter 7: 31st January 1937

Chapter 8: 1st February 1937

Chapter 9: Coming....

[draciformes]

I bought a brand new Coleman tent 8 person with a porch for 50 dollars and I'm going NUTS with euphoria

[tina-aumont]

Arabian Nights

Arabian Nights is a 1942 adventure film directed by John Rawlins and starring Jon Hall, Maria Montez, Sabu and Leif Erikson. The film is derived from The Book of One Thousand and One Nights but owes more to the imagination of Universal Pictures than the original Arabian stories. Unlike other films in the genre (The Thief of Bagdad), it features no monsters or supernatural elements.

This is the first feature film that Universal made using the three-strip Technicolor film process, although producer Walter Wanger had worked on two earlier Technicolor films for other studios: The Trail of the Lonesome Pine (1936) at Paramount and the 1937 Walter Wanger's Vogues of 1938 for United Artists.

Plot (it may contain spoilers)

In ancient Persia, the young women of a royal harem read the story of Sherazade, unfolding the film's story. Sherazade, a dancer in a wandering circus, captures the attention of Kamar, the brother of the caliph, Haroun al-Rashid. Kamar's infatuation influences his attempts to seize the throne from Haroun and make Sherazade his queen. His revolt fails, and he is sentenced to slow death by exposure, but Kamar's men storm the palace and free their leader. Wounded and forced to flee, Haroun chances upon Sherazade's circus and is spotted by the young acrobat Ali Ben Ali. Aware of Haroun's identity, Ali hides him in the circus. Later, upon awakening from his injuries, Haroun beholds Sherazade and falls in love with her.

Meanwhile, Kamar assumes the throne, but Sherazade is not to be found. He orders the captain of his guard to find her, but a scheming grand vizier, Nadan, approaches the captain with the order to make Sherazade 'disappear.' After finding them, the captain sells the troupe into slavery. When the captain is found out, Nadan murders him in order to conceal his treachery. Haroun, Sherazade, and the acrobats escape the slave pens, but are found by Kamar's army and taken to a tent city in the desert. Kamar reunites with Sherazade and proposes, but she has fallen in love with Haroun instead. Nadan, recognizing the caliph, uses this knowledge to blackmail Sherazade into helping him remove Kamar from the throne, in return for safe conduct for Haroun out of the caliphate. In secret, however, he plans to have Haroun killed once he has crossed the border.

Upon learning of this insidious scheme, Ali and his fellow performers rescue Haroun, who then decides to free Sherazade with the help of the acrobats. But Haroun and the others are quickly captured, and Sherazade finally learns his true identity. Kamar engages Haroun in a swordfight, while the acrobats set fire to the tents; and the arrival of the caliph's loyal troops, summoned by Ali, triggers a massive battle. In the end, as Kamar prepares to deliver the deathstroke to Haroun, Nadan assassinates Kamar. But as he prepares to do in Haroun, Ahmad and Ali interfere, forcing him to flee. Nadan is stopped by a thrown spear and dies inside a burning tent, leaving Haroun, Sherazade, and their loyal friends to celebrate victory.

Cast

Jon Hall – Haroun-Al-Raschid

Maria Montez – Sherazade

Sabu – Ali Ben Ali

Leif Erikson – Kamar

Billy Gilbert – Ahmad

Edgar Barrier – Nadan

Richard Lane – Corporal

Turhan Bey – Captain of the Guard

John Qualen – Aladdin

Shemp Howard – Sinbad

William 'Wee Willie' Davis – Valda

Thomas Gomez – Hakim

Jeni Le Gon – Dresser / Dancer's Maid

Robert Greig – Eunuch

Charles Coleman – Eunuch

Emory Parnell – Harem Sentry

Harry Cording – Blacksmith

Robin Raymond – Slave Girl

Carmen D'Antonio – Harem Girl

The film was released on 25th December 1942.

Photos from ebay and text from wikipedia.

[thenaughtynorth]

Untold Admiration

Javier Escuella was such a beautiful, yet extremely dangerous man. Evelyn certainly learned that the hard way.

Javier Escuella (RDR2) x original female character

Warnings: Violence, swearing, slow burn and yearning for each other, eventual smut

—

Chapter 3:

"My head hurts" Evelyn groaned, rolling onto her side. "I done told ya! You shouldn't try to out-drink me, honey" Karen shot at her, making Tilly and Mary-Beth laugh. That was very true. One couldn't out-drink that woman. Evelyn had crashed with the girls the night before, instead of sleeping in her own private tent. There was no way in hell that she was crossing camp alone after her little encounter with Javier. She kept telling herself that it was because she was scared of the man, but in reality it was because she was scared of being alone with her thoughts. She was still absolutely shocked at his reveal. She had craved the intensity and closeness, but she had chicken'd out, quickly leaving after hearing his words. Javier was an intense and very dangerous man, and Evelyn had decided not to poke at his inner demon any further. "I'm never drinking again," she laughed in defeat, "OK, that's a lie." The girls hadn't pushed her on the subject of her and Javier, but she knew it was about to become her turn. The girls were all sat in a close circle, silent enough so that the rest of the camp wouldn't hear a thing. They were teasing Mary-Beth on her forming relationship with Kieran, and Mary-Beth blushed, admitting that they'd gotten rather close at the party.

"Oh, c'mon Mary-Beth, we know you're sweet on one another! So how was it?" Karen poked at her, "was it just like in your little books?" Evelyn couldn't help but to laugh and tease along. Watching Mary-Beth get all shy and red in her face was worth it. "You know I'm not that kind of girl!" Mary-Beth defended herself with a foolish grin. That girl was in love; and quite frankly horrible at hiding it. Evelyn took a certain amount of pride in being a tad better at hiding her admiration for the Mexican revolutionary. "But.. We kissed.. And.." Mary-Beth almost couldn't get the words out, being all girly and cute about the subject. "Mary-Beth?! Tell me you didn't see his.. Penis?" Evelyn joined in, poking fun at her adorable innocence. The blush had taken over her entire face and she got up, unable to handle anymore teasing. It felt good to joke around with the girls.

"Javier?" Tilly leaned in, being quiet enough for only Evelyn to hear her. "What about him?" "What the hell happened last night?" Evelyn thought about it for what felt like a minute, because if she had to be honest, she didn't have a single clue. It was weird what had happened, and it had all happened so rapidly. She hadn't had the time to come up with a smart-ass reply, he had really caught her off guard. "Let's just say that we're not exactly speaking right now." Tilly nodded, deciding not to pursue any further, as something told her the matter was a lot more serious than the one of Mary-Beth's. Evelyn sighed to herself. Today was another day and all she could do was wait. Wait for a possible assignment from van der Linde. Probably something completely insane, she thought.

"Take Ms. Coleman with you" Evelyn overheard from her position. "You've got to be kidding me Dutch.. That girl is a liability, she's.. She's gonna blow the entire thing!" "Now, now, Mr. Escuella. I'm afraid there are no other options. There are no men available, and we need this job done. We need the money. She's an excellent thief." Evelyn was certain that neither of them had a clue that she was as close as she was. "She ain't so bad, Javi" Marston added. "Trust me, Javier.. Son" Dutch sighed, somehow managing to persuade Javier and John into bring her along on whatever shenanigans they were up to. "I'll go find get her. She's probably hungover as all hell" John chuckled. Evelyn was quick to sneak around the girls' carts and down to the water. She did not want to have such an awkward conversation as it would be, if the men found out that she'd been listening to their scheming. After a short while, she was approached by John, "hi, Evi". Evelyn sighed to herself. Did he really have to call her that? "Hey, John."

The plan was pretty simple. They three of them were robbing a large homestead. A Braithwaite homestead. She was let in on the entire history between the Grays and the Braithwaites on their way to the location. Marston didn't shut his mouth once on the road, oblivious to the tension between Javier and Evelyn. She hadn't dared to even talk to him, let alone look his way since they left camp. Dutch and Hosea had discussed the approach, agreeing that the best possible way would be to go in at night, when the Braithewaites were out. Josiah Trelawny had gotten the gang its info; there was going to be a big party at the main Braithwaite mansion. It was perfect.

"You guys ready?" Javier asked, pulling up a bandana to cover his face. They couldn't be too careful; they really didn't want to blow their covers with neither of the plantation families. John and Evelyn did the same, as they all quietly made their way into the homestead. John had only scouted two guards, both circling the outside of the property. The house was big. Big enough to easily get lost in, Evelyn thought. They had no trouble clearing the very first floor, managing to gather great amounts of jewelry, silverware, and cold hard cash. The three of the decided to split up. John was obviously the worst burglar of the bunch, so he volunteered to look out, whilst the upper floor was searched through. Javier and Evelyn each took a room, searching all the crevices and corners. Evelyn found a well hidden stash with stacks of money and bonds. She pushed the bandana down, so she could breathe properly. Dutch was going to be very happy about this. Evelyn quietly stuffed her satchel with the goods, and made her way back out of the room. As she stepped out in the hallway, the floorboards underneath her creaked and she let out a curse. "Hello?" Shit. "Is anybody there?" A voice called out. Not John. Not Javier. Evelyn frantically looked for a place to hide, as she could see the light from a lantern move its way up the stairs.

Before she could think further, she was pressed firmly against the wall, behind a large cabinet. A hand firmly over her mouth, before she could make a noise. Javier had saved her. Their bodies were pressed so tightly together, she could feel his hot breath on the side of her neck. With his hot breath on her and with both of his hands on her, she felt unable to breathe. In any other circumstance, she would probably have loved being this close to him - unless he was threatening her with a knife, of course. There were footsteps approaching the two of them, and Javier froze, holding in his breath. "Knife" he whispered to her, "wait". All he could do was pray and hope that she had understood what he meant. "Whoever you are, you are messing with the wrong family!" the man threatened. He loaded his revolver - Evelyn knew she'd have to act soon.

"Now".

It all went so fast. She had thrown the knife as soon as the man had noticed them behind the cabinet. Javier worked swiftly himself, having caught both the guard's body and the lantern before they had hit the floor. Javier looked at her properly for the first time that day. "Impressive. Clean hit" he quietly laughed, taking back the throwing-knife that was planted in the heart of the dead body. "Such a shame he had to ruin a perfectly good moment" he smirked and handed her the man's revolver. It was nice and shiny and it looked very expensive. Javier approached her. He looked amazing in the light the lantern cast. Dangerous, yet so intoxicating. Javier ran his thumb over her jaw as he held her face.

In Evelyn's dream scenario, the two of them would take their time to take advantage of the adrenaline flowing through their bodies, and passionately express their lust for one another. But fate wouldn't have it that way, as gunshots rang through the air outside of the house. Evelyn's heart sank when his hand left her face, but she knew they had to move. "I'll go see to John. Keep looting" Javier ordered as he ran down the hallway. Evelyn quickly and sloppily searched the rest of the rooms, the sound of bullets outside. It wouldn't be long until they'd have to get the hell out of there. There would be backup soon. Evelyn sighed - she didn't have enough room in her satchels for the money clippings she acquired. "Well, I guess I don't need this corset" she muttered, quickly getting rid of it. She stuffed the money inside her shirt and prayed to god that the boys were done fighting, when she ran down the stairs.

Evelyn grabbed her shotgun before she stepped out. She ran to where John was sitting in cover. She was a rusty shot, if she had to be completely honest, but her and John still managed to fight off the newly arrived Braithwaites. John bolted after a runaway, making sure that they left no one alive. Evelyn looked around for Javier, but he was nowhere to be seen. She ran around the house, thankful for her timing, as she found Javier being pinned down to the ground by a very big man with a very big knife. He struggled to not get impaled; Evelyn couldn't miss this shot. One loud blast left the attacker dead on top of Javier, who in turn shrieked like a child, "mierda, he's heavy". She helped push the big guy off of him and extended a hand out for him. He sighed defeatedly, but accepting the help nonetheless.

Evelyn questioned Javier's sulking, "what's wrong? You're alive." The three of them were riding back to camp with their score. "My vest," he sighed, "it's all fucked up and cut to pieces". She snorted - indeed it was. Javier was so insanely vain, it was almost an illness. "Aw, look at it on the bright side. Now you can say you've made a sacrifice," Evelyn joked, content with herself. "Oh, is that so, now?" he asked and she simply nodded, "is that the reason why you're not wearing anything under your shirt?" She froze, hugging her coat tighter to her body. Damn it.

"Well done, very well done. Mr. Escuella, Mr. Marston.." Dutch was overviewing the goods the three of them had brought home to camp. Evelyn awkwardly returned to them, with the money and jewelry from her shirt in hand. "Ms. Coleman, excellent job." Dutch laughed, eyeing the two gentlemen next to her. She rolled her eyes. Boys will be boys - they had told him about the missing undergarment. “So did you only dump the corset or were there matching panties?" Micah Bell asked when she passed him. Dickhead. She found herself smiling. She had made peace with Javier and she had contributed to the gang with a big score.

She found herself oddly relieved, that the sexual frustration she felt towards Javier, was the biggest issue she had as of that moment. That and of course Micah Bell being a pervert.

All chapters

[sapphicbookclub]

The Roommate Arrangement by Jae

Comedian Stephanie Renshaw hopes to finally get her big break in LA. A chance encounter lands her the perfect apartment close to the comedy clubs, but it comes with a catch: she needs a roommate to afford the rent.

Enter Rae Coleman, a former police officer working the door at one of the top comedy clubs. After getting injured in the line of duty and losing her job with the LAPD, Rae guards her wounded soul behind a tough exterior.

At first, the two clash horribly before a tentative friendship develops. Bit by bit, Steph manages to break through the walls Rae has built around her.

But Steph has never been in a relationship, preferring casual flings, and Rae isn’t sure she’s ready to be happy again. Will they find the courage to open themselves up to love?

Genres: contemporary, romance

Get the book from Blackwell's with free worldwide shipping here!

[randadrives]

Solo Safety Pt. 2

In Pt. 1, we covered some basics on how to encourage your mindset to start hiking or camping alone. As promised, I am now going to cover more tangible basics of safety – wildlife, weather, your vehicle, and the tools to have. I’m a firm believer that almost anyone can start hiking or camping with almost anything you already own. It doesn’t take many material items to go out and enjoy the outdoors. However, there are some essentials a person shouldn’t leave home without, and some knowledge to keep in mind, as well.

I am going to list some hiking essentials that are a starting point that also go right along with a camping trip. Anything I suggest does NOT necessarily need to be purchased brand new for top dollar. I encourage thrifting, looking out for people you know who may be discarding their camping gear, flea markets/yard sales, etc. If you’re in an area in the western states, there are so many second-hand gear stores. REI has a section in their stores where they sell returned items for cheaper prices. And these suggestions are just that: suggestions. People camp and hike in all different ways. Some outdoorsy folks are extravagant, and others enjoy being outside with nothing to get in the way of it. Some of what I list is recommended by organizations such as the National Park Service, but I’ll include some of my own ideas, also.

Hiking Essentials:

Water

Snacks (or full meals for longer hikes)

Flashlight/headlamp

Navigation - GPS, map, and/or compass

First-aid kit (moleskin, tweezers, bandaids, antiseptic wipes, gauze, tape, tourniquet)

Matches or lighter

Emergency blanket

Knife/multitool

Sun protection (sunglasses/hat/sunscreen/SPF clothing)

Clothing layers (warm hat, gloves, jacket/poncho, extra socks)

Some extra things you will find in my hiking pack:

Water flitration

Portable charger and cord

Insect repellent

Resealable bags (1 or 2 disposable as well as a reusable dry bag)

Unscented wipes

Hand sanitizer

Wallet or ID

Wristwatch

Bandana

Paracord

Trowel (for cat holes)

Hair ties

Pad/tampon/cup

More extras if you’re filling frilly:

Trekking poles

Duct tape

Seat pad/cushion

Camera

I know on paper this list can appear overwhelming if you’ve never packed a backpack for a hike before, but I promise I fit all of this (aside from the frilly extras) in an 18 liter backpack I bought on sale. I chose to purchase a new bag because I wanted the warranty, and I liked the style and set up. It would be even easier to use a bag you already own to pack and try out for a hike or two to start. Make notes of what you would improve, what items you felt were excessive, extra things you wish you brought, etc. There is no need to go out and buy a new backpack/bag before you commit to this type of hobby. Even if you can fit the bare necessities in the cargo pockets of your pants, or a fanny pack you already own, try that out first.

What do you think you could add for camping? Based on this list, you have most of what you need anyway! Add a tent for shelter, a sleeping bag, and some cooking gear (like a Coleman camp stove or a Jetboil, both run off propane) and a cooler for the meals you packed, and you are probably ready to sleep where you land. If you go online, “cowboy camping” is taking up in popularity, where you just use a sleeping pad on the ground and add your sleeping bag or some blankets, and you sleep under the night sky. If that’s what you’re into, then you can carry even less. Is it less safe than sleeping in a tent? Not by much, but as much as I enjoy being outside, I do my best to keep insects and the like OUT of my sleeping arrangement. A tent or some type of sleeping structure lends me a small feeling of security I will not give up. It's kind of like when you're a kid scared of monsters, and you convince yourself tucking your feet under your blanket will keep you safe. I would love to hear from others about their successful cowboy camping trips, though. This year I ran into a hiker who was working his way through the North Country Trail, using a hammock to sleep in at night. That makes for a lighter backpack! Whether you have a hand-me-down one-person tent, or a new palace made from nylon, there shouldn’t be anything stopping you from something you want to try. Tara Dower recently finished the fastest known time to complete the entire Appalachian Trail, and she spent her down time literally napping on the dirt. Don’t forget a good chair, though! It is where I spend at least 50% of my time while camping, so I like to have a comfortable one.

Lavish extras:

Air mattress or cot

Portable fridge

Power banks

Table

Electric blanket

Portable water heater

Portable gazebo

I could go on, because you can go all out with camping if you really want to and bring all types of creature comforts. But that’s a conversation for another post! And whether your adventure is an hour or several days, if you have a dog with you, make sure you have the essentials for them, such as extra water, food, and any first aid items they could need.

You’re probably thinking: “Wow, she really covered ALL the stuff you could possibly need for these adventures!” And you’re wrong. There is a completely separate list of items I carry in my vehicle at all times that can prove useful. Whether you dabble in off-roading, or you don't leave suburban areas, there are still things you should keep in your vehicle for those "just in case" moments. I have an old backpack in the bed of my truck, or you could use a cardboard box, a plastic tote case, a duffel, or whatever else you have on hand. I don't often need to go in this bag, but it's nice to have when I do. I carry in it:

Another portable charging bank

Yet another first-aid kit

Flashlight batteries

Travel size hygiene items

Emergency blanket

Unscented wipes

Paracord

Headlamp

Waterproof matches

Reusable spork

Multitool

Zip ties

Emergency rations

Empty water bottle

Jumper cables

Fire starters

Extra set of clothes (old sweat pants, socks, sweater that would have been donated anyway)

Towel

Beanie

But don't toss the bag in the back of your vehicle and forget about it. Make sure you periodically go through it, check to see if things need cleaned or charged and are in working condition. It's easy to forget what you have, and looking at and touching these things once a month will keep it in the back of your mind when you need them most.

I also have a set of traction boards and a 7 gallon jug of water I try to keep stocked with fresh water. Recently I decided I'm going to add a shovel to my truck bed, and I'm also working on deciding what type of fuel container I want to add.

I also keep a separate bag in the front of my vehicle. Is this being excessive? Probably, but I love to be prepared. It has:

Mechanix gloves

Winter gloves

Beanie

Pens

Lighter

Matches

Snacks (a random protein/Nutrigrain bar has saved me from hanger)

National Park Pass

Bandana

Roll of TP

Unscented wipes

Hand sanitizer

Sunscreen/insect repellent/bear spray (These move between my hiking bag and truck bag as needed)

Flashlight

Seatbelt cutter

Window hammer

Electrical tape

Reusable zip ties

Lint roller (great for finding ticks on your clothes)

First-Aid kit

Maintenance of your vehicle can be more important than what you carry in it. Having tires with proper tread based on your location, changing your oil at appropriate intervals, and knowing how to drive your vehicle in the scenarios you enter far outweigh having flashy things. The abilities to start your battery if it dies and change your tire by yourself are powerful and can help you out of a bad situation. Do not be the person who drives into something they can't handle with a "what could happen" attitude and then not be able to get yourself out of it. If you want to learn, ask your friends. I have never had anyone scoff at me or not want to help when I have asked for it. And this is coming from someone who never knew anything about RVs and then randomly decided to purchase one to live in. There was a BIG learning curve, which came with the #1 ability I carry: the ability to humble myself and ask for help. You don't have to be an obsessive "car guy" to know how to take care of your own. Also, I know it's fun to have the flashy mods on your car, but don't prioritize those over the useful ones. Function over aesthetic, always. If you were hoping for some car camping advice, it's not something I've tried for myself yet. I would love to, I just have yet to set up my truck bed properly to try it out. I suggest going on YouTube or Facebook and checking out some of the car camping groups. There is plenty of information out there!

I'm sure plenty of people survive their outings just fine without all this. . . stuff. And that's fine. These are just suggestions. Now on to some other safety details.

Remember how I said at the beginning of part 1, that everyone always asks: "aren't you scared out there all alone?" Many of those people are referring to one thing in particular, which is the wildlife. I am not going to delve too far into this, because the topic can vary SO much. The wildlife in Florida is different from the wildlife in Virginia, which is different from the wildlife in Colorado, which is different from the wildlife in southern Arizona, etc. The most important thing is to research the area you are camping or hiking in. The second most important thing to remember is: don't touch the wildlife. You are not a Disney princess. You are not Steve Irwin. Distance is your friend. If you're in bear country, you carry the bear spray, you read about what to do if you encounter bears, and you properly store food or any smelly items you may have in a bear box, or in a tree. If you're in the desert, you research what to do for snake bites or scorpion stings. I refuse to go to Florida ever again, so I have zero advice for you on the gators, snakes, and spiders there (Kidding. . . mostly). Research local plants so you can identify poisonous plants such as Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac. Many years ago, just walking my dogs on a normal sidewalk in Georgia - where I had no idea to avoid fiery red ants - resulted in both my dog and myself needing to chug Benadryl when we got home because we ended up so covered in hives. This is all to answer the question: No, most of the time I'm not scared of the wildlife. Occasionally, I will get into my own head, because I've listened to too many episodes of Tooth and Claw Podcast on mountain lion attacks, and I will start to freak myself out on a hike. But I just endure and continue until the fear eases. Animal attacks are rare. People are scarier. I choose the bear. I'm happy to go more into the topic of wildlife if any readers have specific questions, please drop a line!

Now for a brief touch on the weather, because I am not an expert on the subject. The good news is you don't have to be an expert to stay safe. I tend to drive to regions based on the weather, as I'm least happy when it's under 45 degrees and I'm surrounded by wet, slushy snow. I grew up and spent 20 years in Pennsylvania before spending a winter in another state, and once I realized I could do that, I now plan to continue to do that. The main component to weather safety is to stay aware of the expected weather to come. If you're in an area where weather is unpredictable, it's best to stay prepared for all possibilities. It's okay to cancel your hike if there is a thunderstorm or too much wind.

Some people love cold weather camping, but I am not one of them. Camping and hiking in cold weather doesn't change your preparation much. You should just have gear that is built for it, such as a sleeping bag meant for colder temperatures than you will be sleeping in. Waterproof footwear will keep your feet healthy. We discussed how important carrying layers of clothing is, and it matters just as much for cold weather. The materials you choose can mean staying wet and miserable, or drying quickly and keeping warm. As much as I love natural fibers, cotton is not your friend in wet (or sweaty) weather. Choose your sleeping spot based on the shelter it provides from wind, and double your sleeping pads for extra insulation from the cold ground. Knowing the signs of hypothermia and frostbite are imperative. If it's too cold for you to personally have fun in, maybe just wait for warmer weather. If you're seriously interested, there are courses you can take that will prepare you for emergencies such as avalanches.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, I do have experience with the heat. Layering your clothing is still important to protect yourself from sun rays, and there are even shirts you can buy with UV protection built in. Hydration is so important, and I'm a firm believer if you run out of water, you turn around. I always have more than enough water so I can enjoy myself and not cut it short. Carry sunscreen with you and reapply. Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and how to treat. I do suggest if you're in an area that has extreme heat, to work yourself up by starting earlier in the morning before the sun rises. When in hotter months, if I'm going to be hiking well past sunrise, my dog doesn't come with me. It's not worth burning her paws on the hot rocks or sand.

On the subject of listening to too many podcasts, let's talk about natural disasters. There are many stories out there about hikers and climbers being struck by lightning. But it's not always feasible to wait out the inclement weather if you're already out there in the altitude or miles away from shelter. When choosing campsites in an area known for adverse weather, you can avoid being next to water or isolated trees that may attract a strike. If you are hiking and notice signs of a storm moving in, avoid peaks and wide-open fields. The safest options, aside from a building or a vehicle, are ditches and areas below tree lines, and be sure to ditch your metal gear. Tents, picnic shelters, or standing beside the tallest tree will not protect you. There are plenty of natural disasters that can occur, and though it doesn't help to be anxious all the time about what COULD happen, it can give you peace of mind to do a little bit of research to have an idea what to do if a situation might arise. People often think "it won't happen to me." Taking proactive steps to prepare yourself is staying as safe as possible without missing out on the things you want to do. Knowledge is confidence.

I hope between the first and second parts of this solo safety series you were able to pick up some new information to apply to your next adventure. I have found that I learn something new every day doing this, and the information is limitless! Please reach out if during your reading you had an idea for me to cover, or a question to answer.

[outdoorovernights]

Coleman Skydome Tent Review

Have you ever found yourself at the mercy of Mother Nature when your tent simply couldn’t keep up? We’ve all been there, caught in a sudden downpour with a tent as useful as a sieve. If you’re in search of a robust tent to redefine your outdoor experiences, the Coleman Skydome Tent with 5 Minute Setup might just be the answer. Let’s sit down together for a moment to unravel what this tent has to…

[oswincoleman]

Some of Jenna Coleman’s comments from her interview for Elle UK:

Here she talks about Wilderness:

As for Coleman’s latest project, a Gone Girl-style ‘twisted love story’ revenge drama called Wilderness in which she plays the protagonist Liv, she notes how cleverly her character’s story arc is reflected in the costume choices. ‘Liv doesn’t really know who she is,’ explains Coleman. ‘So at the beginning, her wardrobe is very understated, very safe, because she doesn’t want to sit in any camp too much or stand out. It was all very tentative, and she’d throw on socks knitted by her mum or a Fairisle cardigan or something. In the first episode she wears this beautiful pink Emilia Wickstead dress, but even then you can see she’s just wearing what she thinks she should wear, but she’s not comfortable in it at all.’

Without giving too much away – because we’ve had a preview and trust us, the show’s well worth a watch – Coleman’s character soon finds herself jealous of another woman (Cara, played by Ashley Benson), and decides to try her style on for size. ‘It’s typical, really. She copies her nails, borrows her clothes… Tries to be exactly like her, even though it doesn’t fit her character at all. She bounced around a lot.’

Much like Coleman herself, however, once Liv ‘discovered her own skin and found her voice’, a strong sense of personal style quickly followed suit. Thankfully Coleman never had to murder anyone to get there.

So a preview of the show has already been shared with the media. This must mean that it can’t be too much longer until it is released!

And about changing fashion between filming and the time afterwards:

Coleman admits that finding your way back to your own style can be a little tricky at times. ‘You’re in a character’s outfits for so long, I always find there’s a period when you finish the job and you’re a bit like, “oh, I get to be me again. Who am I? What do I actually like?”’

There have been times that Coleman’s character and real-life wardrobes have crossed over, however. ‘I mean I obviously wouldn’t want to start walking around in Queen Victoria’s dresses, even though the costumes were pretty amazing because we copied so much from the actual portraits,’ she laughs. ‘But my character in The Sandman had this really chic white trench that I kind of wish I’d stolen, and she had an incredible sunglasses collection too. I always try to take something from a job as a little reminder… I have this beautiful antique gold watch from The Room At The Top that I’m particularly fond of.’