BWCA Spouses upset? Boundary Waters Group Forum: Solo Tripping
Chat Rooms (0 Chatting)  |  Search  |   Login/Join
* For the benefit of the community, commercial posting is not allowed.
Boundary Waters Quetico Forum
   Group Forum: Solo Tripping
      Spouses upset?     

Author

Text

Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 07:40AM   (Thread Older Than 3 Years)
Do any of you have your spouses get upset with you about going on a solo trip? Mine sure is upset. She thinks this is the craziest thing I've done. The other day she said I'm going thru a mid life crisis by wanting to do this trip.
Just wondering if anyone else is hearing about it too like I am :-)
Mike
 
      Print Top Bottom Previous Next
05/08/2017 08:25AM  
Mine was, has been, is . . . but I've been doing it so long that she just accepts it and keeps quiet (mostly). It was a struggle in the beginning, even the solo day hikes, hunting, fishing, camping, WW rafting, camping, etc. They are full of fears about the "wilderness", especially if they, like my wife, are not outdoorsy. My wife would also wait until after it was agreed and all the planning and prep was done, then start in all over again.
 
05/08/2017 08:53AM  
My wife is very outdoorsy and never bats an eye, she even helps me with contingency planning, IE: she was the first person to suggest I need to bring a spare paddle.

However I do understand your situation.
When we first met, she would cry and really worry when I would be sent out west on the large fires. After I returned without a scratch after 17 years it does not bother/worry her any more.
That does not mean that we do not miss each other.

Now I have to rethink my first statement, my wife does worry about me being in Ak, but that is mostly from fear of me being eaten by bears.

To sum things up we fear what we do not understand, your wife acting that way could be her way of expressing that fear.
 
jeepgirl
distinguished member (436)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 09:28AM  
My husband was at first and asked me to carry a Spot to ease his concern. Since my first solo, he has never asked me not to go. He just tells me to be careful, provide him with my expected route and to always wear my life jacket. Oh and to always check in when I get up and when I go to bed. He believes my abilities more than I do sometimes.
My brother on the other hand thinks I am crazy but at Christmas I heard my husband tell my brother that his little sister is one smart girl in the woods. Love him for saying that.
He is even supporting my plan to travel from Crane Lake to Grand Portage alone next summer providing I carry a Sat phone.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 11:46AM  
Thanks all. My wife's biggest worry is I'm having a lot of issues lately were I had my hernia surgery and she's worried I'll really hurt myself and won't be able to walk/paddle to get help. I can't afford a spot so that's not an option and my phone didn't work that far out there so I'll just have to be extra careful. I was planning on getting a bit in before I base camp, but she wants me to basecamp right away. What do you all suggest?
Thanks again
Mike
 
05/08/2017 12:00PM  
She worries but accepts it. It's funny but her girlfriends are the ones who take issue with me "leaving her behind".
 
05/08/2017 12:44PM  
quote Whatsit: "Thanks all. My wife's biggest worry is I'm having a lot of issues lately were I had my hernia surgery and she's worried I'll really hurt myself and won't be able to walk/paddle to get help. I can't afford a spot so that's not an option and my phone didn't work that far out there so I'll just have to be extra careful. I was planning on getting a bit in before I base camp, but she wants me to basecamp right away. What do you all suggest?
Thanks again
Mike"


There have been a lot of threads on Renting a SPOT, consider doing that if it makes her feel better.
 
Alan Gage
distinguished member(1084)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 01:06PM  
My wife's biggest worry is I'm having a lot of issues lately were I had my hernia surgery and she's worried I'll really hurt myself and won't be able to walk/paddle to get help.


Is that concern legitimate? What kind of problems are you having?

Alan
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 01:46PM  
quote Alan Gage: "
My wife's biggest worry is I'm having a lot of issues lately were I had my hernia surgery and she's worried I'll really hurt myself and won't be able to walk/paddle to get help.



Is that concern legitimate? What kind of problems are you having?


Alan"

Well without getting too graphic the pain goes straight to my groin and feels like someone is squeezing as hard as they can if you get what I mean. Causing terrible pain. Painful to walk, sit, bend over while it's happening. About like what was happening just before my surgery. I was playing the bagpipes around Christmas time and the pain started then.
Mike
 
05/08/2017 02:38PM  
Uhhh nope, should I worry?????

We worked different shifts all our working lives have taken separate vacations (and regular vacations together). I've been going off backpacking, fishing, and hunting alone and with friends for decades.

butthead
 
05/08/2017 03:49PM  
Mine just worries about my well being, and doesn't like being able to get a hold of me. My next trip is an area with possible cell service so I'll send her a text now and again to let her know that I'm cool
 
NotLight
distinguished member(1262)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 05:17PM  

There are degrees to this issue... spouse is worried about your safety, disappointed that you are doing this activity without them, disappointed that you do lots of activites without them and few with them. Don't be in the last category, take precautions, shorten the trip, and pay up your life insurance. No good answer, it's normal to feel slighted when your spouse goes off alone, you have to acknowledge and discuss it, you can't really just off and go.

 
05/08/2017 05:20PM  
Uh oh, I'm doing my first solo this summer and it was my wife's idea. Should I be worried?

Tone
 
Alan Gage
distinguished member(1084)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 06:54PM  
quote Whatsit: "
Well without getting too graphic the pain goes straight to my groin and feels like someone is squeezing as hard as they can if you get what I mean. Causing terrible pain. Painful to walk, sit, bend over while it's happening. About like what was happening just before my surgery. "


What sets it off? How long does it last? Can you comfortably lift the canoe onto your shoulders and take it off repeatedly? How about a 50 pound pack? Can you carry those loads up and down steep trails with poor footing? What makes you think it won't be an issue on the trip?

I have no experience with issues like this so I don't really have any specific advice to give but the more you explain it the more it sounds like your wife might have good reason to be concerned. But maybe you have good reasons why you're not. Either way you need to be honest with yourself.

Alan
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/08/2017 07:58PM  
quote Alan Gage: "
quote Whatsit: "
Well without getting too graphic the pain goes straight to my groin and feels like someone is squeezing as hard as they can if you get what I mean. Causing terrible pain. Painful to walk, sit, bend over while it's happening. About like what was happening just before my surgery. "



What sets it off? How long does it last? Can you comfortably lift the canoe onto your shoulders and take it off repeatedly? How about a 50 pound pack? Can you carry those loads up and down steep trails with poor footing? What makes you think it won't be an issue on the trip?


I have no experience with issues like this so I don't really have any specific advice to give but the more you explain it the more it sounds like your wife might have good reason to be concerned. But maybe you have good reasons why you're not. Either way you need to be honest with yourself.


Alan"

Hi Alan
I sent you an email
Mike
 
05/08/2017 08:22PM  
quote anthonyp007: "Uh oh, I'm doing my first solo this summer and it was my wife's idea. Should I be worried?


Tone"

The only thing my wife says to me when I tell her I'm doing a solo is, " Is the life insurance up to date?" ... Really.
 
muddyfeet
distinguished member(742)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/09/2017 05:55AM  
Wife knows I need time off to go on solo adventures and 'recharge'. From day hikes to week trips she has encouraged it. I'm almost certain she sees the emotional benefit in my spirit and attitude. We do adventure outdoors together as well- so she's no stranger to wilderness and knows I'm fine. I'm sure there were some reservations about multi-day trips at first, but renting (and have since bought) a satellite messanger really helped put those fears at ease- even if just carrying and not using it. At the same time I make sure that she has time to herself when needed to do those things that don't involve me. Now that we have small children it is even more important to make sure the other person has the time off they need once in awhile. From a few hrs of solo workout time, to a weekend away.
 
05/09/2017 10:42AM  
I'm fortunate that my wife is supportive of my solo trips. She says I come back a happier, more content person. I think what she means by that is I'm easier to tolerate after she's had an extended break from me. LOL

To the OP, I'd be a little concerned if I was still having that kind of pain. I think Alan is asking some valid questions. Best of luck and I hope everything works out in the end.
 
hobbydog
distinguished member(1973)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/09/2017 07:21PM  
A big part of going solo is confidence. That will be true for your wife as well. Mine had reservations at first but as my trip grew longer and more challenging she became more accepting and totally understands it is something I have to do. I had a spot and have now upgraded to an inreach. That helps a lot.

Accidental death insurance is really cheap, get some extra protection and it will buy a little piece of mind.

If you are experiencing pain or potential medical issues get an ok from the doc before you go.
 
05/09/2017 08:55PM  
Not upset...sometimes she worries, so a couple years ago I got an InReach. That gives her more peace of mind. We both believe that time apart is a good thing, and she knows I enjoy being alone. I have gone on trips for the past 15 years or so in mid June, and every year I miss our anniversary. This does not bother her; I am a blessed man.
 
05/09/2017 08:59PM  
quote Whatsit: "Thanks all. My wife's biggest worry is I'm having a lot of issues lately were I had my hernia surgery and she's worried I'll really hurt myself and won't be able to walk/paddle to get help. I can't afford a spot so that's not an option and my phone didn't work that far out there so I'll just have to be extra careful. I was planning on getting a bit in before I base camp, but she wants me to basecamp right away. What do you all suggest?
Thanks again
Mike"


If you are anywhere near the Twin Cities en route to the BW, let me know when and I would happily loan you my InReach. That said, I agree with Alan and others who have voiced some concern regarding the pain you are experiencing.
 
mr.barley
distinguished member(7231)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
05/09/2017 09:29PM  
I've only taken 1 solo trip and my wife wife wasn't very concerned or upset even though I had a major hernia going on when I went in. I had walked around with it over 2 years and it wasn't bothering me painwise anymore, but you still worry a bit. Listen to your body. I survived and later had the hernia surgery. I think I was more concerned than her. Maybe she was after the life insurance money. ;-)
 
luft
distinguished member(2850)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/10/2017 03:42AM  
I travel mostly solo both in the BWCA and with general travel. My husband doesn't blink an eye but I do try to ping him with my Delorme Inreach or text him each day if I have cellphone coverage to let him know I am safe and sound.

 
bwcasolo
distinguished member(1921)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/10/2017 04:34AM  
my wife encourages me to stay longer, go farther. helps me prepare food, and thoroughly enjoys herself in our gardens while i am gone.
she know my confidence up in canoe country and my safe travel practices.
fear takes the joy out of living, live it up is our moto. safe travels.
 
ZaraSp00k
distinguished member(1470)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/10/2017 05:52PM  
quote Whatsit: "Do any of you have your spouses get upset with you about going on a solo trip? Mine sure is upset. She thinks this is the craziest thing I've done. The other day she said I'm going thru a mid life crisis by wanting to do this trip.
Just wondering if anyone else is hearing about it too like I am :-)
Mike"


there's two ways to go on this:

one, you could get a girl friend half her age, then she could legitimately accuse you of a mid life crisis

two, I had a friend whose wife encouraged him to continue going on trips, turns out she was the one having an affair
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/10/2017 07:48PM  
My wife is just worried. It's my first solo trip so I guess she has good reason to worry
Mike
 
05/10/2017 08:43PM  
It's understandable. Maybe rent a sat phone and check in every day.

 
Grandma L
distinguished member(5628)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
05/12/2017 10:09AM  
quote Whatsit: "My wife is just worried. It's my first solo trip so I guess she has good reason to worry
Mike"

So where are you going? That too might make a difference. If you are on a "well traveled" route - let her know that there will be people around and that you will be able to easily get help. If you are in a PMA or more isolated area - on your first solo - she might have more concern.
My oldest has taken several month long solo trips and had no problems - like many of the folks here. Be careful, rent a communication device and have a great time.
The first solo trip will make her worry the most.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/12/2017 01:03PM  
quote Grandma L: "
quote Whatsit: "My wife is just worried. It's my first solo trip so I guess she has good reason to worry
Mike"

So where are you going? That too might make a difference. If you are on a "well traveled" route - let her know that there will be people around and that you will be able to easily get help. If you are in a PMA or more isolated area - on your first solo - she might have more concern.
My oldest has taken several month long solo trips and had no problems - like many of the folks here. Be careful, rent a communication device and have a great time.
The first solo trip will make her worry the most. "

Hi Grandma L
For my wife's peace of mind I did pick a very busy spot. The number lakes. I plan on base camping on lake 3 and taking some nice long day trips. If the weather is good I'll try and camp on Insula. I'm leaving Monday, may 22 and getting out on that Friday.
 
05/12/2017 01:56PM  
when I take my kids, my wife worries a little. When I go alone, she doesn't worry at all.
What does that mean?.....
 
05/13/2017 09:11AM  
I love these threads being single for the last 28 yrs. All of the sudden one of my kids worries some about me. I feel safer up there than at my doctor. Haha well, my previous dr anyways.
 
05/13/2017 09:11AM  
I love these threads being single for the last 28 yrs. All of the sudden one of my kids worries some about me. I feel safer up there than at my doctor. Haha well, my previous dr anyways.
 
05/13/2017 10:04AM  
quote cowdoc: "when I take my kids, my wife worries a little. When I go alone, she doesn't worry at all.
What does that mean?....."
Ha!
 
05/13/2017 11:30AM  
quote Whatsit: "
quote Grandma L: "
quote Whatsit: "My wife is just worried. It's my first solo trip so I guess she has good reason to worry
Mike"

So where are you going? That too might make a difference. If you are on a "well traveled" route - let her know that there will be people around and that you will be able to easily get help. If you are in a PMA or more isolated area - on your first solo - she might have more concern.
My oldest has taken several month long solo trips and had no problems - like many of the folks here. Be careful, rent a communication device and have a great time.
The first solo trip will make her worry the most. "

Hi Grandma L
For my wife's peace of mind I did pick a very busy spot. The number lakes. I plan on base camping on lake 3 and taking some nice long day trips. If the weather is good I'll try and camp on Insula. I'm leaving Monday, may 22 and getting out on that Friday.
"

You could get to insula in 5 to 6 hours. A much more interesting lake to Basecamp from. Nice sand beaches at several sites and good fishing. My 2 cents says try it.
 
05/13/2017 12:09PM  
quote Frenchy19: "Not upset...sometimes she worries, so a couple years ago I got an InReach. That gives her more peace of mind. We both believe that time apart is a good thing, and she knows I enjoy being alone. I have gone on trips for the past 15 years or so in mid June, and every year I miss our anniversary. This does not bother her; I am a blessed man."




Your wife let's you go alone because otherwise you would go with me. And she thinks I'm a canibnal.
 
Grandma L
distinguished member(5628)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
05/13/2017 04:33PM  
That area is so busy - there will be lots of people around And - your cell phone could work pretty well - mine does (Verison or ATT). Text works the best- I just turn it on in the evening to check messages. Battery lasts if you keep communication to a minimum.
 
05/13/2017 07:49PM  
I've been going solo for he past few years now and the wife is pretty accepting of it. What she worries about is some of the recent health issues I've had (one of which would have surely been the end of me had I been in the BWCA) the past couple of years. If the trip was solo this year she would have asked that I use a SPOT or similar device for emergencies. Since I'm going with a group she's better with it.
 
IceColdGold
distinguished member(928)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/14/2017 08:13PM  
I am pretty blessed. My wife has no issue with me doing any of the things I like to do. I have only done one solo last Oct, and I plan to do more. She only asks that I call her when I am able before I start the drive home.

The one thing I did differently when on my solo was paddle close to shore because of the colder water.

Compared to driving your car down the road, canoeing solo in the wilderness is much safer.
 
05/15/2017 05:25AM  
IceColdGold reminds me of something that happened on my first BW solo that you want to avoid - coming out late. A combination of overly ambitious route planning, inexperience, bad weather, and personal sickness had me exiting the day after I was supposed to call home. And it was late in the day when I exited then and got back to cell service in Ely. Avoid that at all costs, Mike.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/15/2017 05:41AM  
quote boonie: "IceColdGold reminds me of something that happened on my first BW solo that you want to avoid - coming out late. A combination of overly ambitious route planning, inexperience, bad weather, and personal sickness had me exiting the day after I was supposed to call home. And it was late in the day when I exited then and got back to cell service in Ely. Avoid that at all costs, Mike."

:-) I'm planning on getting to the car by 8 or 9 am so hopefully that will still be the plan
Thanks for the advise Boonie
 
05/15/2017 08:00AM  
I always leave a map of proposed route and ranger phone #'s. I make sure I tell her that my exit date is dependent on weather. She was a little concerned the first few trips. Now I think she just plans her payback vacation.
 
05/16/2017 04:04PM  
YES. My wife really dislikes me going solo. She uses the "midlife crisis" line, too.
I probably won't do too many more solos because I can't tolerate the loneliness.
Of course, my solos have both been in Wabakimi, which is pretty much off the beaten path.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/16/2017 06:34PM  
quote jcavenagh: "YES. My wife really dislikes me going solo. She uses the "midlife crisis" line, too.
I probably won't do too many more solos because I can't tolerate the loneliness.
Of course, my solos have both been in Wabakimi, which is pretty much off the beaten path."

Good to know someone else is in my boat :-)
Thanks
Mike
 
gkimball
distinguished member(655)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/16/2017 08:56PM  
Like others she accepts that I need to do it and doesn't discourage me as long as I do it smart:

1. Leave a map of where I plan to go with written notes of when I plan to move camp and when I will be coming out.

2. I started using a DeLorme InReach 3 years ago and she now actually likes to see where I am when a I text her a note in the evening. The text shows a link she can click that opens a map showing my location. This has helped immensely. I'm getting so I like it too. My kids think I'm a hero when I send them one - usually in the middle of the trip.

When I get back she even accepts that I have reverted back to some of the behaviors I had when we first met...nice!
 
05/17/2017 05:45AM  
quote jcavenagh: "
I probably won't do too many more solos because I can't tolerate the loneliness.
Of course, my solos have both been in Wabakimi, which is pretty much off the beaten path."


I like the idea of solo with a meet up for a few days with other solos mid trip. Or start a trip together then split off. It's kind of the best of both worlds for me. I love going solo but it's nice to hang out on a remote lake with someone for a day or two.

I'm doing a solo w/dog 10 nighter out of Pickerel in early Sept. I'm looking to layover on Veron for 2, maybe 3 nights with a day trip to Delahey. That's about as middle of the Park as you can get. LMK if you wanna meet.

 
05/17/2017 07:56AM  
Mike I see u r from OK. I am doing a group solo this Fall also if u r interested. We could probably pick u up and share expenses. Planning on hitting the Fall MN wingnite for 1 evening. If not I usually go twice a year (Spring and Fall) and maybe we could hook up on one of those.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
05/17/2017 12:49PM  
quote AmarilloJim: "Mike I see u r from OK. I am doing a group solo this Fall also if u r interested. We could probably pick u up and share expenses. Planning on hitting the Fall MN wingnite for 1 evening. If not I usually go twice a year (Spring and Fall) and maybe we could hook up on one of those."

That sounds fun. When you have dates etc email me them please. Thanks
Mike
 
05/19/2017 06:44PM  
quote TomT: "
quote jcavenagh: "
I probably won't do too many more solos because I can't tolerate the loneliness.
Of course, my solos have both been in Wabakimi, which is pretty much off the beaten path."

I like the idea of a solo with a meet up for a few days with other solos mid trip. Or start a trip together then split off. It's kind of the best of both worlds for me. I love going solo but it's nice to hang out on a remote lake with someone for a day or two.
I'm doing a solo w/dog 10 nighter out of Pickerel in early Sept. I'm looking to layover on Veron for 2, maybe 3 nights with a day trip to Delahey. That's about as middle of the Park as you can get. LMK if you wanna meet.
"

My wife understands and doesn't really worry or complain about me going solo because she knows it's part of who I am. She does get jealous, though, because she likes to wilderness paddle and doesn't want to miss out. Her preference is base camping and just enough time fishing to make sure we have some for dinner, whereas I like to travel far, test myself, explore and at times spend the whole day fishing. So, my trips are split between going solo and tandem, and it works out well for us.
I like the idea of a solo "meet up" as well. Back from my spring solo (May 1 - May 14), and I already can't wait to get back. Trip of a lifetime. Tentatively planning on returning to the same area in September timeframe, which lines up with your plans so I'll keep you posted.
 
mvernelson
senior member (77)senior membersenior member
  
06/11/2017 11:46AM  
My wife just knows how I am. Im not much of a talker, hate crowds and am perfectly content by myself. For many years my father in law thought I hated him cause I didn't talk much during our fishing trips. I set my wife mind at ease by using a P.S.B. that I can still text her on so she knew I was ok.
 
06/11/2017 12:08PM  
quote mvernelson: "My wife just knows how I am. Im not much of a talker, hate crowds and am perfectly content by myself. For many years my father in law thought I hated him cause I didn't talk much during our fishing trips. I set my wife mind at ease by using a P.S.B. that I can still text her on so she knew I was ok. "


Just curious, what is the P.S.B. that you can message with?
I'm very familiar with Spot devices, Inreach sevices from both Delorme and Garmin, and other satelite messagers.
I own and carry an ACR ResqLink and am familiar with McMurdo, PLB's (there are fundamental differences between PLB's and satelite messagers).

butthead
 
mvernelson
senior member (77)senior membersenior member
  
06/11/2017 02:07PM  
quote butthead: "
quote mvernelson: "My wife just knows how I am. Im not much of a talker, hate crowds and am perfectly content by myself. For many years my father in law thought I hated him cause I didn't talk much during our fishing trips. I set my wife mind at ease by using a P.S.B. that I can still text her on so she knew I was ok. "



Just curious, what is the P.S.B. that you can message with?
I'm very familiar with Spot devices, Inreach sevices from both Delorme and Garmin, and other satelite messagers.
I own and carry an ACR ResqLink and am familiar with McMurdo, PLB's (there are fundamental differences between PLB's and satelite messagers).


butthead"
Its a Delorme " in Reach Explorer" . I just activate the plan for the month. Around 100 bucks but well worth it in my opinion. Then download the Earthmate app from Garmin on your phone. Make sure the bluetooth is turned on your phone and it will link with and use the satellite from the P.S.B. You definitely have way more experience with these than I do but I believe its the app that makes it all come together. How do you like your ACR ResqLink?? I was eye balling it.
 
06/11/2017 04:46PM  
ACR ResQLink PLB
Built to International, standards for battery life, transmitting power, waterproofness, durability, signal goes directly to SAR. No messaging capability, emergency rescue beacon only. No service contracts.

Delorme " in Reach Explorer" has been replaced with Garmin Inreach Explorer Satellite messenger communicating thru Iridium satellite communication system. Offers 2way text messaging and pre-written messages. Emergency signaling is referred to SAR via a paid private service.

There are several specification differences in transmit power, battery life, durability, and such.

butthead
 
mvernelson
senior member (77)senior membersenior member
  
06/11/2017 09:17PM  
quote butthead: " ACR ResQLink PLB
Built to International, standards for battery life, transmitting power, waterproofness, durability, signal goes directly to SAR. No messaging capability, emergency rescue beacon only. No service contracts.


Delorme " in Reach Explorer" has been replaced with Garmin Inreach Explorer Satellite messenger communicating thru Iridium satellite communication system. Offers 2way text messaging and pre-written messages. Emergency signaling is referred to SAR via a paid private service.

There are several specification differences in transmit power, battery life, durability, and such.


butthead"


Ok that makes sense why the app is through Garmin. Cool good info!
 
mastertangler
distinguished member(4432)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
06/16/2017 12:35PM  
I have better than I deserve......she used to say 2 weeks apart was to long but now I typically go for at least 20 days. She rationalizes to herself that "your going to go wether I get mad or not so why get upset".

I do try and make it up to her however with a vacation she will like.
 
pswith5
distinguished member(3687)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
06/17/2017 05:13AM  
I didn't think she got upset because she takes time away without me. But I have seen a recent trend. She hits the casino when I am gone. And she doesn't win!
 
06/17/2017 08:31AM  
i stopped solo tripping a couple years ago because of medical stuff. my wife would be absolutely panicked if i went on a solo trip.
 
06/28/2017 08:57AM  
My wife tells me that there's always a chance I won't come back.
 
07/09/2017 07:30AM  
I have only done one solo (I plan to do more), and my wife was very supportive. I carried an InReach for safety and so she wouldn't worry.
 
mastertangler
distinguished member(4432)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
09/30/2017 01:31PM  
Well I stayed canoeing long enough to not be around when Hurricane Erma showed up! That left all the responsibility of securing our home to my wife. She had help of course from friends but it was still a bit stressful for her. When I finally did show up the frustration boiled over a bit and I got to hear about being gone for almost a month.

Completely understandable........but what now? She knows I'm still going and she knows I deserve it, but she doesn't like it. Like the old saying goes "if momma aint happy then no one is" and "happy wife, happy life" both of which contain wisdom.

So thats the conundrum the average Joe usually finds himself in. Pretty sure I have repaired any cracks with a bit of super glue and all seems well ;-)

Now to plan next years trip........
 
01/08/2018 08:54PM  
My wife is great about my soloing. I do take a Garmin In Reach and send her an all’s well message at the end of each day. The only thing she questions is my using a hammock, she thinks it’s crazy. I had flowers sent to her during my first solo thanking her for letting me go. That was a HOMERUN. I think I got the idea on this site.
 
muddyfeet
distinguished member(742)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/08/2018 10:51PM  


hiawatha: "My wife tells me that there's always a chance I won't come back.
"


This is pretty funny.
 
01/09/2018 02:04PM  
crumpman: "My wife is great about my soloing. I do take a Garmin In Reach and send her an all’s well message at the end of each day. The only thing she questions is my using a hammock, she thinks it’s crazy. I had flowers sent to her during my first solo thanking her for letting me go. That was a HOMERUN. I think I got the idea on this site."


Last time I gave my wife flowers she wanted to know what I was doing wrong.
 
01/09/2018 04:17PM  
Whatsit: "Do any of you have your spouses get upset with you about going on a solo trip? Mine sure is upset. She thinks this is the craziest thing I've done. The other day she said I'm going thru a mid life crisis by wanting to do this trip.
Just wondering if anyone else is hearing about it too like I am :-)
Mike"


A garmin inreach has solved a lot as it allows two-communications. You do have to work out a protocol for what happens if the messages don't go through or the unit breaks.
 
ockycamper
distinguished member(1372)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/10/2018 05:34PM  
My only thought on this one is that fair is fair. . ..if we go for a 1-2 week BWCA trip, solo or not, . . ..leaving our wives to manage things at home. . .we should take them on a 1-2 week vacation where they want to go.

I just turned 61 this year. I mentally added up all the trips I have taken to BWCA, Adirondicks, Ozarks, etc. We take a family vacation to the beach every summer. . .but I don't take my wife somewhere just the two of us. That is changing here on out. I will be tripping first with my wife. . .in whatever way she defines "tripping" (typically condo). Don't want to get to the end of my life and say. . ."gee.. .i wish I had made more trips with the guys vs my wife".
 
01/11/2018 02:35AM  
Spouses upset??? Mine isn't yet but she may be when I tell her when and where I'm going to be spending my spring, late summer and all fall. I will retire in a few months and plan to spend about 3 months canoeing, spread out between a couple of spring BWCA trips and a couple of Ontario trips. FRED
 
01/11/2018 08:30AM  
I work at being pragmatic. I know I am safer in the wilderness than driving up and back so I be sure I stay alert and pull of and take a nap when indicated and before needed. Sue came to accept I want to stay alive and does not worry about my going off now.
We have talked about being upset I go more than she does and at first I do think that bothered her thinking I would not have time if she wanted to go somewhere. That, too, has passed and now she talks about when she is able to retire or cut back to part time the places she wants to go with me. Her trips will cost a lot more, but it is her turn.
I think talking about it and following through on our agreements works pretty well.
 
AG4
member (45)member
  
01/12/2018 01:03PM  
I did a trip last year of 8 days. When I got home and told her I couldn't wait to go again... she was upset. "How could you possibly think about leaving again after just getting back!!??"

I conned her in to going on a trip with me this year!

I'm going to use that flower idea next time. PURE GOLD!
 
ockycamper
distinguished member(1372)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/12/2018 01:28PM  
The irony stuck me on this thread that if our wives took off for a month leaving us with the house, pets and kids/grandkids, it would be total disaster by the time they returned.

After arriving back home this last time I realized it was time to start asking my wife where she would like to go. . .then take her.

(epilogue: after this thought I sold my solo canoe. . .then bought another rifle for deer season!)
 
mastertangler
distinguished member(4432)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberpower member
  
01/14/2018 09:56AM  
crumpman: "My wife is great about my soloing. I had flowers sent to her during my first solo thanking her for letting me go. That was a HOMERUN. I think I got the idea on this site."


Excellent idea crupman! Why didn't I think of that? I usually am always late, trying to repair any damage done. Better to top off the "love tank" before leaving and hope it holds out till you get back.
 
NoisyWetHermit
distinguished member (114)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/07/2018 07:23AM  
Whatsit: "Do any of you have your spouses get upset with you about going on a solo trip? Mine sure is upset. She thinks this is the craziest thing I've done. The other day she said I'm going thru a mid life crisis by wanting to do this trip.
Just wondering if anyone else is hearing about it too like I am :-)
Mike"

Whatsit, you asked me once if I thought about going solo. I would love to, but the thought about what the spouse would think about it kind of stops me. But I do have that new tent that I need to test out when the weather warms up a bit. And I moved the seat on my canoe, I really should test that out. I probably need to take a solo trip just to make sure the gear functions safely before I take my son out to the wild wilderness.
You know my wife, do you think she'll buy this load of bull?
 
arm2008
distinguished member (176)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/09/2018 03:15PM  
ockycamper: "The irony stuck me on this thread that if our wives took off for a month leaving us with the house, pets and kids/grandkids, it would be total disaster by the time they returned.

After arriving back home this last time I realized it was time to start asking my wife where she would like to go. . .then take her.

(epilogue: after this thought I sold my solo canoe. . .then bought another rifle for deer season!)"


She likes to hunt?
 
02/10/2018 09:27AM  
mastertangler: "
crumpman: "My wife is great about my soloing. I had flowers sent to her during my first solo thanking her for letting me go. That was a HOMERUN. I think I got the idea on this site."



Excellent idea crupman! Why didn't I think of that? I usually am always late, trying to repair any damage done. Better to top off the "love tank" before leaving and hope it holds out till you get back. "


I have done the flower trick ever since we were dating, I get added points by sending them to her work. The other nurses all say, "my husband never sends me flowere".
 
02/10/2018 10:15AM  
Noisy-

Here's my experience: It takes a hell of a good salesman to sell a wife something she doesn't want to buy :).
 
NoisyWetHermit
distinguished member (114)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/12/2018 07:56AM  
boonie: "Noisy-


Here's my experience: It takes a hell of a good salesman to sell a wife something she doesn't want to buy :)."


Thanks Boonie, I know that's right!

Valentines Day is Wednesday, we have a nice dinner planned...
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/15/2018 02:19PM  
NoisyWetHermit: "
boonie: "Noisy-



Here's my experience: It takes a hell of a good salesman to sell a wife something she doesn't want to buy :)."



Thanks Boonie, I know that's right!


Valentines Day is Wednesday, we have a nice dinner planned..."

Noisy a nice dinner will never work. And your tent idea, dead in the water. These Block girls can see thru everything. Even when I’m listening to mine I still get in trouble. Don’t risk it. It’s not worth it. I tried it once and barely got away with it. We’re doing time. Hard time too.
 
NoisyWetHermit
distinguished member (114)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/16/2018 02:55PM  
Whatsit: "
NoisyWetHermit: "
boonie: "Noisy-



Here's my experience: It takes a hell of a good salesman to sell a wife something she doesn't want to buy :)."




Thanks Boonie, I know that's right!



Valentines Day is Wednesday, we have a nice dinner planned..."

Noisy a nice dinner will never work. And your tent idea, dead in the water. These Block girls can see thru everything. Even when I’m listening to mine I still get in trouble. Don’t risk it. It’s not worth it. I tried it once and barely got away with it. We’re doing time. Hard time too. "

Thanks Whatsit! I'm glad we talked.
 
Whatsit
distinguished member(726)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/17/2018 09:40AM  
NoisyWetHermit: "
Whatsit: "
NoisyWetHermit: "
boonie: "Noisy-




Here's my experience: It takes a hell of a good salesman to sell a wife something she doesn't want to buy :)."




Thanks Boonie, I know that's right!



Valentines Day is Wednesday, we have a nice dinner planned..."

Noisy a nice dinner will never work. And your tent idea, dead in the water. These Block girls can see thru everything. Even when I’m listening to mine I still get in trouble. Don’t risk it. It’s not worth it. I tried it once and barely got away with it. We’re doing time. Hard time too. "

Thanks Whatsit! I'm glad we talked. "

Oh! You’ve got no idea!
 
mpeebles
distinguished member (253)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
02/22/2018 08:19AM  
Went on my first solo last year. Wife was pretty upset and thought it too risky. She even got the daughter to pile on. After some discussion and a compromise to rent a sat phone, some of her (and mine I might add) concerns were alleviated. She thought and continues to think I'm crazy but that's been a constant over 45 yrs. anyway.

Looking back I think that the open and honest discussion was the most helpful.

That trip was one of the better choices I have ever made. Found out a lot about myself.

.......mike
 
TDBauer
member (23)member
  
03/21/2018 12:49PM  
Before I met my wife I used to do solo camping and some canoe tripping vacations all the time. Since we met, ten years ago, I've sort of gotten out of camping. But that changed a few months ago.

I now have three trips planned this year for the BWCA/Quitico and two are solo. She's a little freaked out. Doesn't understand how a person could go into the wilderness camping like that. Her idea of camping is at a State Park with a 5th wheel behind the truck. Or a weekend at our off grid cabin. I can't get her to agree to go along on a canoe trip.

She's dealing with it bit better now that she was back when I informed her of my planned trips this year. She still doesn't like it, doesn't get it... but to bad I guess, cause this dude is going. I told her to come along... but she doesn't want to be away from certain comforts. She knows I am capable of taking care of myself and surviving with minimal kit, but she worries.

I haven't told her yet about my plan for a fly in solo trip into the middle of Caribou Provincial Park spring on 2019... hehehehehe... again, too bad. She can go if she wants. But if not, solo works for me.

 
03/21/2018 03:38PM  
Is that the park in Nova Scotia or do you mean WCPP? Either way it will be a good trip!
 
03/21/2018 03:41PM  
Frenchy19: "
cowdoc: "when I take my kids, my wife worries a little. When I go alone, she doesn't worry at all.
What does that mean?....."



Ha!

I just found this response. That's funny!
 
03/26/2018 08:34AM  
I found the solution for me. My wife gets to go to Spain with my 2 sons on a school trip and she also gets to go to Ireland with our church group. Hey wait a minute, maybe not so good. My trips cost about $500 each! Oh well, it's the first year I haven't gotten the evil eye.
 
straighthairedcurly
distinguished member(1923)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/21/2020 10:32PM  
So I just found this thread and got a kick out of it. I am planning my first ever solo this summer and my husband was a bit surprised and cautious about it. He claims he talked about doing a solo a few years back and I told him it was too dangerous. I recall nothing of the sort.

He knows better than to disapprove openly since we met while running class IV rapids in whitewater kayaks and he saw me paddle over Iilgen Falls on the North shore. He trusts my judgement. I have done driving trips all across the USA, both by myself and with just our son when he was between the ages of 4 and 8. My son and I camped out along the way. Besides he knows I divorced my 1st husband when he tried to discourage me from running off and whitewater kayaking every weekend.

It helps that my husband gets to take a month long Costa Rica trip on his own every year and I never complain about that :) The time apart keeps our relationship fresh.
 
01/22/2020 02:14PM  
straighthairedcurly: "So I just found this thread and got a kick out of it.


He knows better than to disapprove openly since we met while running class IV rapids in whitewater kayaks and he saw me paddle over Iilgen Falls on the North shore.

The time apart keeps our relationship fresh."


Still can't believe you went over Illgen Falls, the wife and I rented that cabin once.

The secret to a happy marriage between my wife and I is to have our time apart.
I go on alot of solo canoe and backpacking trips. I did a couple years in Alaska where I never saw her for 7 months in a row each year. That was a little long, but we got used to it pretty easy.
After 30 years of fighting wildland fires, she doesn't even bat an eye when I go on some solo adventures.
 
01/22/2020 10:31PM  
Mine is only sad that he isn't getting to go....but I need time alone to recharge. He doesn't understand why, but he accepts it. A long time ago he worried that I was having an affair- no way! One guy is enough....LOL.
He did worry some last year when he thought I was coming home from the Porkies earlier than I was...so communication is key.
 
Castaway
distinguished member (218)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/23/2020 12:14AM  
 
Castaway
distinguished member (218)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/23/2020 12:31AM  

Tried to fix the italic font but it must be above my pay grade.
 
Castaway
distinguished member (218)distinguished memberdistinguished memberdistinguished member
  
01/23/2020 12:38AM  
"
"


 
01/23/2020 10:18AM  
I think Frenchy has to edit his post from 5/13/17 and close his quote of Cowdoc.
 
      Print Top Bottom Previous Next