Girl vs. Wild NewsOK.com Blogging Community

Outdoors folk are taking their four-legged friends everywhere with them. Camping, hiking, climbing. You name it.

But before you take your pooch out for a hike there are a few things that need to be covered before leaving home and hitting the trails:

* Make sure Fido’s shot records are up to date. A dog that is not vaccinated is a danger to himself, as well other animals on the trail.

* Dogs will need water and a trail snack. A good rule of thumb is for every trail break you take, the dog will need one, too. Of course you won’t consume the same amount of water or food, but you will both need to stay hydrated and nourished. Dehydration and a general sluggish behavior can sneak up before you know it. You have to remember your dog is burning energy just like you are.

* Be prepared to administer first-aid treatment for your furry friend. Dogs are just as susceptible to trail injuries just as we are. Most injuries occur to dog’s paws. Since a dog’s footpads are in direct contact with the ground when they run, walk, and play, this makes them prone to injury. Cuts, blisters, and burns are very common in active pups and they need to be treated. In most cases cleaning the injured paw and applying antibacterial ointment and a bandage will do the trick. Be sure to keep and eye on it because a simple cut can lead to an infection, and in that case you need to see the vet as soon as possible.

* If striking out on an overnight trip keep in mind your dog needs shelter, too. Sure, letting your dog sleep outside is fine in most cases, but wind and rain can wear a pup out. If you’re not up for sharing your sleeping bag, be sure to pack a blanket or mat to protect them from the ground.

Local climber and proud dog owner Shane Seaton says, “you have to remember to pack enough food for each meal that you will be gone, and remember to pack bowls for food and water, and also pack a leash and something for your dog to sleep on.

“I always packs treats to reward (his dog) Happy when she is doing commands in a new environment, but before you even leave home you have to make sure your dog is trained to follow those commands.”

Happy has become an outstanding trail dog with just nine months of training. Happy is proof that any dog with a little love and care can be a perfect trail dog.

“Happy is happiest when we go climbing together,” Seaton said. “She loves it just as much as I do.”

I have shared the trail with both Shane and Happy, and the trail is always happier with Happy tagging along.

As an outdoors adventure girl I am very earth conscious, always doing my bit to reduce, reuse, and recycle — from recycling the paper and plastic products that come in the mail, to using less energy. In doing so, I try to not buy bottled water, and instead use a hard plastic bottle like some made by Nalgene. But, there are questions about bisphenol-a, or BPA, an ingredient in the most popular type of Nalgene bottle. BPA, found in polycarbonate plastics, mimics the human hormone estrogen. Polycarbonates are used to make a variety of products, including water bottles. BPA could be harmful to our bodies. Canada plans to ban it's use in children's products, such as baby bottles. Should we be concerned? The answer is, maybe. To me, the findings are unclear. In fact, the findings are so unclear that I am going to keep living on the wild side and use my trusty Nalgene until the FDA tells me not to. But, if living risky is not for you, a way to tell if your water bottle contains BPA is by looking on the bottom. If you see a recycling number 7, it most likely contains BPA. Most hard, clear plastics also contain BPA. But don't throw your hands up yet. Several companies make a range of products made of softer, just-as-durable plastics that are BPA free. And if you want to steer away from plastics, the new trend in water bottles is aluminum. Aluminum bottles come in a variety of trendy colors, and are lightweight and packable. You still can have your water in an earth-friendly fashion and feel safe doing so. With that said, I am going to go have a fresh drink of water from my wild, BPA-containing bottle. Girl vs. Wild, Jacquelyn Farris

Backpacking season is here, and it’s time to dust off your pack and get hiking. If you’re thinking, “I need a new pack, or the one I have is so uncomfortable,” here are a few guidelines to help find the perfect pack.

•Decide what type of backpacking you want to do. Day hikes, overnight adventures or extended stays on the trail require different equipment and should factor into deciding which pack is best for you.

•Window shop to see what is out there and what features strike your fancy. You will be amazed at all the bells and whistles you will find.

Be sure to see if the pack has a hydration bladder or if it can hold one. Is it waterproof or have a waterproof compartment? Does it have pockets for camera gear and sunglasses? Is there an internal frame? Are there padded shoulder straps and a waist belt? Is there a warranty, and if so what does it cover?

•Ask around to see what fellow backpackers are carrying. People love talking shop and sharing gear tips and tales. Ask what brands your friends have, as well as what features they like or dislike about their current pack.

•Gender also plays a role when selecting a pack. Most big-name companies offer female-specific packs.

If you’re a girl like me, you’re likely thinking, “I don’t want some frufru pink pack.” But keep in mind the female anatomy and that every adjustment made in the mind of comfort is worth it, even if it means it comes in pink.

•After deciding how long your trip is going to be, you need to decide just what you’re going to need to fit in the pack whether it’s food, clothing, a tent, your sleeping bag or the kitchen sink. Gather all the goods to see how large of a pack you need. Keep in mind that every ounce adds up. Maybe you can leave the crossword puzzle at home.

•I recommend either taking everything you’re taking to the store for a test run, or purchasing a few and testing them at home. Just be sure to check the stores’ return policy. Try on the ones you like and wear them around. Any bit of discomfort in the store or at home is only going to be a thousand times worse on the trail.

Remember, finding the perfect pack may take time. Be patient and you will find the perfect pack to have you out on the trail.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

CLICK ON THE PHOTO FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM MY ADVENTURES

You only get good grades if you do your homework, correct? Yes correct, and the same goes with selecting and buying your adventure gear. It’s like picking a new car or even a spouse. It’s a big deal. This is the gear that you are trusting to save you in tight situations, right? You can’t go to the local five and dime and get a “super deal of a tent” and honestly believe it will stand up like a tent that is sold and trusted by the guys at your local gear store. Sure the gear at local shops might cost a bit more, but you are honestly paying for quality. Every bit of quality should be counted when headed out into the wild. You can’t control the way the wild will act, but you can control how you and your gear will hold up in any senario.

Buying gear can feel taxing at times when the total seems to be adding with each “necessity” added, but you can take relief in knowing that if you get the best you can afford in the beginning you are much less likely to have to replace it anytime soon.

Shopping around and doing your research is the only way to give yourself good peace of mind.

Right now is the perfect time to grab the great deals on apparel weather it’s online or in stores. This is the time when stores are flipping their retail floors over to spring and summer. If you thought all winter how you really would like to have a quality winter jacket you can now find it, but not feel like you will go to the poor house after paying for it. Just tuck it away in the closest for next year. It will be there waiting for you.

Honestly all retail stores have sales you just have to be a bit more patient for the best deals. Online is ideal if you aren’t set on a certain color. Most items found online are last season’s styles. For instance, for 2008 a pair of climbing pants might come in grey and green, and last years colors were blue and brown. Same pants just last season colors making them half off.

I myself have a gear acquiring method I use when outfitting myself with the latest and greatest. I work both ends of the shopping spectrum online and in store. When it comes to an item that needs to be tried on, for instance apparel, shoes, and so on. I suggest going to a local store. Ask the important questions of the products and their recommended wear. If your feeling indecisive as to which product is honestly the best choice ask the sales associate which they use, wear, or have tested. You will find it’s not always the most expensive. I have never gone wrong with this method. The gurus at Backwoods on North May have helped me in countless buying decisions. The guys and gals know their stuff inside and out.

Now when it comes to replacing an item that I have used and loved in the past, or buying from a brand I know fits spot on I go direct to an online store. If I search hard enough I can land a great deal, and most of the time get free shipping. But bottom line, if it’s something I am not for certain on I go straight to a local store and save the headache of return shipping nightmares.

In the end shop around, get good advice, and buy the gear your most comfortable with because your the one using it.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

Sometimes life gets in the way of my adventures. Lately that seems to be a trend that I can’t avoid. The wild use to whisper my name, now it’s just screaming at me to come back and hike in it’s woods, and sleep in it’s dirt under it’s stars.

I find myself flipping through magazines in passing at coffee shops and stores. Thumbing the pages dreaming of the places I need to go and see. My gear is starting to give me bad looks as I pass by like the neglectful outdoors girl I have become.

It’s been two weeks since I have been in the wild, or anywhere near an open field and it’s starting to get to me. I need my fresh air, my adrenaline, my adventure!!!

I need the me that is Girl vs. Wild! Until then, I will just keep planning my next big adventure.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn

CLICK ON THE PHOTO FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM MY ADVENTURES

The grass is not always greener on the other side. In fact, I would say 9 out 10 times it isn’t. The same goes for this great state.

Oklahoma is A OK. In fact it’s far better that just OK. This past weekend I went on a winter camping trip in the Wichita Wildlife Refuge. I grabbed a few friends and we hit the road.

Driving west on 44 we start chatting and laughing of good times, and dreaming up grand plans for the future. All of a sudden it hits me. I am in Oklahoma, and am having a great time. That’s right, I like it here. I live in this great state and look at all these amazing places I have at my fingertips. I have the best of both worlds!

Monday through Friday I have a great job that allows me to be creative and push my limits. I get to run through the city and take it all in. Local hot spots, live music, and eclectic food. As soon as Friday breaks I am ready for an escape. I pack fast and within an hour I am in the great outdoors. Far from the fast world, traffic and electricity, into experiencing the pleasures of what life is really all about.

Now I know what you’re thinking, because I have heard it a thousand times. If I could only live in Colorado or Utah, life would be perfect. I know from experience what you’re thinking because I lived in Colorado for 3 years. I ran through the mountains and loved every bit of it. But there was something missing for me. Family, success, and drive.

Well, I ask you this. Have you thought about what it is you want from those places?

If it’s mountains, hiking, clean trails, fresh streams and rivers, climbing great rocks, setting new routes, kayaking, or deep valleys. We have it all here. Just open your eyes!!! Oklahoma better than A OK!

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

CLICK ON THE PHOTO FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM MY ADVENTURES

I made it back around 8 o’clock last night, oh wait I actually made it back around 4 o’clock, but as soon as I pulled into the city I realized that I left my wallet at the Medicine Park Love’s truck stop. Yes, you got it. I had to turn around and do the drive one more time.
I made it back safe and sound.

I am tired, wind burned, and ready for more! With relief hypothermia was never looming, and I didn’t loose my food to Ranger Rick the racoon. I will share tales from my trip tomorrow. For now you can flip through the photos from my adventure.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn

CLICK ON THE PHOTO FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM MY ADVENTURES

In a few hours I will be on the road, and soon there after in a tent and by the fire. Sitting in good company cooking veggie dogs fireside while enjoying fun laughs, and preparing for a cold nights rest.

Last night my camping buddy and I aligned our watches for a last minute run down on what we were about to do. It was agreed that we had to at least be slightly crazy to be heading out with the temperatures that are expected.

With that said, I am more excited than ever for the challenge, and plan to growl in the face of being cold. I will post my weekend adventures, and tales from the trails on Monday!

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

Life can be messy. Mine is that. My family is made of patches and love. We formed as a group out of fractions which grew into new formations. Leaving behind others to form a stronger unit. This is how I got my Mimi. She was a woman of constant thought, and some might call it worry. Always caring for those around her and loving on those who were hurting. Of course she was hurting herself, and she let others love on her in her time of need, but was always there to offer kind words.

She was my Mimi. My grandmother by marriage. My truest realest grandmother I have ever had. Sure I had real birth grandmothers, but never seeing them made them distant thoughts, and she was real to me.

When I was younger she drove me crazy. Driving far too slow in her 19 God knows what tan Chevy Caprice. It was a close relative to a military humvee, and I was sure she got it off a local air base. She was also known for documenting, or at least attempting to document every single blessed event with a picture. I have decided over the years that she had about a 30 to 70 % chance to actually get the camera to fire. But God knows we all had to smile and say cheese each time.

These days I have moments when I would trade 500 misfires for five minutes with her. Just a few seconds to spill my guts out so she could tell me it will all be ok. In her final weeks I lived for what became coined Mondays with my Mimi. I would sit with her in various hospitals and care centers and lie to her, and myself saying it will all be ok. I knew better than that, but sometimes lies can bandage the soul.

I remember when my Dad told me she was sick. Everything was rushed, and panic set in fast for my family. I was strangely calm though, and immediately had resolve. I remember the first thought I had was “oh she’s dead.” For some reason I had her in the ground before she even got there. Looking back on it though I think that was my way to cope. Be matter of fact, and scientific about it. Some might say I was just being pessimistic, but I think I was just being real. She was going to die. There was no bargaining with God in this matter. He had already claimed her to visit him soon.

Everything went really fast. Like an honest blur mixed with false positives about the future ahead. She moved here as soon as she was stable and we began the process to the end. It was similar to riding a roller coaster at Disney, except for it was in hell. As a family we all walked on egg shells with each other pretending the elephant of death wasn’t in the room. We got really good at it too. Almost so that we thought she would live. Be fine. I even had myself nearly convinced.

My Mondays with Mimi became a daily event straight to the end. Robotic almost, but loved through and through. Go to work, go run, go see Mimi. Go to work, go run, go see Mimi. Daily, for weeks this went on from hospital to care center, and back to the hospital again. For weeks that was all we knew. Friends became vague thoughts of my past. Time was broken down into shifts and stays. I don’t even know why we ever unpacked her. She was like a Supertramp of hospital stays. Always on the road.

I remember her last day traveling on the earth with us. She fought strong and hard to go with God. She wanted it to be over.The journey to end. She was tired of traveling, to weak to go on. I knew that night when I left the hospital there would be no Mondays. No more more kind words and comfort. It was to end simply then and there as we gave her back to God. She was not be ours on this earth any longer.

It’s almost like she set me free in her passing that night. Asking me to travel for her. Carry her pack and find adventures she only dreamed of. She put me on the path to explore this world with no ties holding me back. No need to second guess each move.

Maybe she is what lit the fire in me to travel, explore, and seek my own adventures on the road. Just maybe, she led me to be Girl vs. Wild?

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

CLICK ON THE PHOTO FOR MORE PHOTOS FROM MY ADVENTURES

I just wanted to say a quick thank you to the OKC Outdoor Network and all the amazing people I met this weekend. I will share my tales tomorrow. For now, I need sleep and a bed. From a very wise bear. Only you can prevent Forest fires. Girl vs. Wild Jacquelyn