BWCA Getting Used To Being Unconnected Boundary Waters Listening Point - General Discussion
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WonderMonkey
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02/18/2019 09:52PM   (Thread Older Than 3 Years)
We know know we are connected nearly all the time. To each other, to other people at work or wherever we go. Internet, etc. all counts. Going on a BWCAW or Quetico trip, even with others, is a drastic difference. About three years ago I went on my first solo backpacking trip (three nights) in a remote area and it was the first time I was that alone for that period of time in about 25 years. It was very different. You have to consciously occupy your mind either with your surroundings or your own thoughts. It really doesn't matter if being "that connected" is right or wrong, it just "is".

I'm not concerned about my first trip to Quetico (September) but I am conscious of how long (a week) I'll be out there. Sure, I'll have others with me but it will still be different. I'm doing "base camp" things now to get ready to do things that will occupy my time. Books, camp activities, etc. will be on my list.

I personally think it is going to be fantastic, but if I just went there and sat around that would not work. Therefore I'm not going to do that.

So ... if you don't mind, could you tell me about, and if, you had to "get used" to being out there?
 
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02/18/2019 10:03PM  
Wow, sure... bring a book. But this is your chance to take in the country you are spending great effort to get to. If your not going to fish, how about a little exploring... Check out your map and see if there is a small creek or something to sneak up or just paddle the lake. Maybe a little hike... Just don't hole up in your tent... you can do that in your back yard. Gather wood start a fire and kick back with your book. But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities.
 
02/18/2019 10:23PM  
nctry: "Wow, sure... bring a book. But this is your chance to take in the country you are spending great effort to get to. If your not going to fish, how about a little exploring... Check out your map and see if there is a small creek or something to sneak up or just paddle the lake. Maybe a little hike... Just don't hole up in your tent... you can do that in your back yard. Gather wood start a fire and kick back with your book. But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities. "
Very well said Ben....
 
WonderMonkey
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02/18/2019 10:41PM  
nctry: "Wow, sure... bring a book. But this is your chance to take in the country you are spending great effort to get to. If your not going to fish, how about a little exploring... Check out your map and see if there is a small creek or something to sneak up or just paddle the lake. Maybe a little hike... Just don't hole up in your tent... you can do that in your back yard. Gather wood start a fire and kick back with your book. But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities. "


Yes, certainly. I plan on exploring the lake, hiking a trail, reading, etc. All things I like to do currently. However regardless of all that I'm just aware that it's longer than I've gone in many years and looking to hear from others that were similar.

I switched from gas stove to my twig stove recently to be more conscious of using my time to gather the small amount of fuel needed to cook. Slows me down to enjoy my outing. I have begun to make my own tarp stakes even though I have others in my pack. I'll make a camp chair. Books will be read in a mighty fashion. I'll do a bit of fishing, also, but not all-day affairs. Canoeing around the lake will be very enjoyable. And on and on.

Generally just aware that I'll have plenty of time to have thought my thoughts and want to ensure I really enjoy my outing. I know I will.
 
02/18/2019 10:46PM  
I always did a lot of things alone from the time I was young - hunting, fishing, hiking, camping - so it was no big adjustment. I've done a lot of solos in the BW plus several trips with others. The longest solo has been over two weeks. I have no problem with it.

Some people say they have to keep busy, but I'm not one of those. In fact the more solo trips I do and the longer they get, the less I worry about that. I quit fishing after a few years, quit taking a book, simplified meals and camp chores, rarely make a fire.

My trips are usually traveling vs. base camping and when traveling I'm busy navigating, observing, exploring, finding a camp site, setting up camp. There's the flora, fauna, weather, stars to observe. I take pictures and write a lot. I wouldn't worry too much about it, you'll get used to it. You'll find what works for you and it will almost undoubtedly change over time.

Personally I like being disconnected and being immersed in the moment, having an uninterrupted flow of awareness of the natural world.
 
02/18/2019 11:03PM  
In addition to what has already been said, I take up quite a bit of time taking pictures and documenting the trip. I especially write down about the fishing part. Between photography, exploring, fishing, camp chores and reading the day is pretty much used up. One of the things I like the most is going solo. I travel a long way to do these BW trips. So if my wife or one of the kids don't go, I will go solo. I guess I like the alone time.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 06:08AM  
boonie: Some people say they have to keep busy, but I'm not one of those. In fact the more solo trips I do and the longer they get, the less I worry about that. I quit fishing after a few years, quit taking a book, simplified meals and camp chores, rarely make a fire. "


I plan on solos as well. It may be that I'm over-thinking all this but I'd like to be ready and then if I don't feel the need to keep busy (to a point) then I won't.

Part of this is that I work a bunch. Prior to last year I'd work, raise a family, coach competitive fastpitch, etc. Just about every minute was filled with something else it would all go downhill. Now that I'm not coaching anymore and my last child is off to college I'm having to learn how to relax. It's harder than I would have thought.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 06:11AM  
MHS67: "In addition to what has already been said, I take up quite a bit of time taking pictures and documenting the trip. I especially write down about the fishing part. Between photography, exploring, fishing, camp chores and reading the day is pretty much used up. One of the things I like the most is going solo. I travel a long way to do these BW trips. So if my wife or one of the kids don't go, I will go solo. I guess I like the alone time."


A few years ago in order to slow down my hikes, I took the advice of a fellow hammocker and filmed my trip. Documenting, as you mentioned. I found that did the trick and do plan on filming and journaling my trip. I've written a bunch of half-done stories to use that outlet and will probably do the same on my trip.
 
02/19/2019 07:01AM  
My idea of a trip is all about sight seeing and refining my camping skills. I always try to do something a bit different to see how well it works. I don't fish. I love exploring the near by Lakes. Sometimes I'll pull up to a spot and bushwhack up a hill to get a different perspective of the area. I do bring a book. Just paddling around is very enjoyable to me and what better place to do it.
 
02/19/2019 08:24AM  
I really enjoy my little AM/FM radio with the weather band. I've taking a liking to the CBC when I'm in Quetico. Then on a clear night the AM dial is fantastic just to scroll through.

I also just like to sit by the lake early morning or dusk and just try to observe it unfold. I've seen beavers come very nearby on a few occasions and as long as I'm quiet and still they don't seem to mind me. In other words, I don't get tail slapped. :)

 
ozarkpaddler
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02/19/2019 08:28AM  
I guess it's tough for me to understand because I was born in a time and place where being "Unplugged" frequently was much easier than it is now? I've always spent a lot of time in the woods and/or on the water. I've always relished being "Unplugged" since I was a kid and spent hours and hours exploring the river hills along the Mississippi River. My brain is always sufficiently "Occupied" by the feel of the paddle and the way the canoe moves, the loons, the wind, the waves, the dragonfly that landed on my pack, the orange patch of Indian Paintbrush that catches my eye..... The quiet allows me to more easily commune with our creator and marvel at the wonders of our world. Even now that I rarely fish, my mind is very content with absorbing the natural rhythms of the outdoors.

Before your trip try "Unplugging" for a few hours a day for a few weeks. Try to gradually increase your "Unplugged" time so it won't be such a "Shock" when you jump off into the wilderness. And, as mentioned, take a good book or two. Preferably something about the BWCAW that you pick up at Piragis or the Lake Superior Trading Post (Depending upon your entry point) prior to your trip. Relax, you'll enjoy it and learn to relish that time "Unplugged!"

 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 08:42AM  
Blatz: "My idea of a trip is all about sight seeing and refining my camping skills. I always try to do something a bit different to see how well it works. I don't fish. I love exploring the near by Lakes. Sometimes I'll pull up to a spot and bushwhack up a hill to get a different perspective of the area. I do bring a book. Just paddling around is very enjoyable to me and what better place to do it."


I think I'll be similar. As I mentioned up there I've changed how I camp and I'm doing more "camping skills". I like doing those things but not if I feel rushed. Therefore I'm practicing them now so there I'll just work on them more. I got a Gransfors Bruk Outdoor Axe and have used it on two outings. It's larger than a hatchet and smaller than a normal axe and great for using around camp to do things. I made a small table with bank line at my last outing. Those types of things are what I think I'll do more of on my trip.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 08:45AM  
TomT: "I really enjoy my little AM/FM radio with the weather band. I've taking a liking to the CBC when I'm in Quetico. Then on a clear night the AM dial is fantastic just to scroll through.

I also just like to sit by the lake early morning or dusk and just try to observe it unfold. I've seen beavers come very nearby on a few occasions and as long as I'm quiet and still they don't seem to mind me. In other words, I don't get tail slapped. :)"


At one point I used hiking to reconnect with nature and music. I'd hike a bit and enjoy things then listen to a bit of music. Same around camp, if nobody is disturbed. I think in those early mornings and evenings as you mentioned I'd do what you are talking about, just watch it all happen. Early morning if I can get my rump out of my hammock, anyways.
 
landoftheskytintedwater
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02/19/2019 08:51AM  
I always find it takes a day or two to slow down. I started intentionally trying to slow down on my first day, which has helped. It's a huge adjustment to go from civilization to the wilderness (and vice versa). After a couple days, I don't think I've ever felt bored on a BWCA trip. For this reason, I always like to travel long days the first two days of a trip. Eventually the paddle-portage-paddle-portage routine does its trick.
 
02/19/2019 09:07AM  
WonderMonkey: "
MHS67: "In addition to what has already been said, I take up quite a bit of time taking pictures and documenting the trip. I especially write down about the fishing part. Between photography, exploring, fishing, camp chores and reading the day is pretty much used up. One of the things I like the most is going solo. I travel a long way to do these BW trips. So if my wife or one of the kids don't go, I will go solo. I guess I like the alone time."



A few years ago in order to slow down my hikes, I took the advice of a fellow hammocker and filmed my trip. Documenting, as you mentioned. I found that did the trick and do plan on filming and journaling my trip. I've written a bunch of half-done stories to use that outlet and will probably do the same on my trip."


A video journal is a great idea. It's great for you so you can look back on your trip, get back into the mindset you were in, and record things you think were important, but it is also great for other people too. You can share a bit more of what it is like during the trip, help others understand your process for doing things and you can leave messages for you wife and kids (if applicable) as well. Plus if something happens to you then there should be a bit of a record of what lead up to it.

Personally for me though, I never have time to read while camping. I do a little shore fishing, sit and enjoy the view, swim, play cards with whoever else is on the trip. Plus we tend to try to get on the water for a few hours to fish and explore the lake. Add in camp chores and making dinner and we have full days. All that is just for the base camp days, when traveling it is busier. Although we do tend to travel pretty far when we are moving so much of the day is spent there.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 09:24AM  
landoftheskytintedwater: "I always find it takes a day or two to slow down. I started intentionally trying to slow down on my first day, which has helped. It's a huge adjustment to go from civilization to the wilderness (and vice versa). After a couple days, I don't think I've ever felt bored on a BWCA trip. For this reason, I always like to travel long days the first two days of a trip. Eventually the paddle-portage-paddle-portage routine does its trick."


We are going to reasonably push to our base camp and then stay for two nights. Getting there should take one full day and part of the next. On the way back we will do a travel day then stay two nights, then two short days to get back. I think staying busy that first day will help out. I actually feel like a wild animal that is being reintroduced into its natural environment!
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 09:27AM  
A1t2o: "A video journal is a great idea. It's great for you so you can look back on your trip, get back into the mindset you were in, and record things you think were important, but it is also great for other people too. You can share a bit more of what it is like during the trip, help others understand your process for doing things and you can leave messages for you wife and kids (if applicable) as well. Plus if something happens to you then there should be a bit of a record of what lead up to it.

Personally for me though, I never have time to read while camping. I do a little shore fishing, sit and enjoy the view, swim, play cards with whoever else is on the trip. Plus we tend to try to get on the water for a few hours to fish and explore the lake. Add in camp chores and making dinner and we have full days. All that is just for the base camp days, when traveling it is busier. Although we do tend to travel pretty far when we are moving so much of the day is spent there."


I may be surprised on how little time there actually is. I feel if I do some preparation ahead with base camp "activities" and then don't get to them I'll be just fine. As I mentioned up there somewhere I'm probably over-thinking but I'd rather do that NOW then wish I had THEN.
 
02/19/2019 09:30AM  
Additional items of interest that you can start at home and carry with you would be bird watching, learning the plants, star gazing... On our trip last spring my brother in law wanted to bring a telescope, so we did. Not something I would bring on every trip, but it was fun to see the moons around Jupiter.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 09:30AM  
ozarkpaddler: "I guess it's tough for me to understand because I was born in a time and place where being "Unplugged" frequently was much easier than it is now? I've always spent a lot of time in the woods and/or on the water. I've always relished being "Unplugged" since I was a kid and spent hours and hours exploring the river hills along the Mississippi River. My brain is always sufficiently "Occupied" by the feel of the paddle and the way the canoe moves, the loons, the wind, the waves, the dragonfly that landed on my pack, the orange patch of Indian Paintbrush that catches my eye..... The quiet allows me to more easily commune with our creator and marvel at the wonders of our world. Even now that I rarely fish, my mind is very content with absorbing the natural rhythms of the outdoors.

Before your trip try "Unplugging" for a few hours a day for a few weeks. Try to gradually increase your "Unplugged" time so it won't be such a "Shock" when you jump off into the wilderness. And, as mentioned, take a good book or two. Preferably something about the BWCAW that you pick up at Piragis or the Lake Superior Trading Post (Depending upon your entry point) prior to your trip. Relax, you'll enjoy it and learn to relish that time "Unplugged!"
"


Starting with my first solo trip in 25 years just a few years ago, I have been doing sortof what you talked about. My job is running our Data & Analytics division so I'm always around "Plugged In". I think what will help is that almost each month For the past year I've been doing little adventures and have been recently making sure they are in less populated areas. Practicing being unplugged.

I'm also really anticipating other trips (2020) that I am planning. They are solo trips but a buddy is invited. Obviously if he goes then it's not solo but he and I can go several hours without talking and enjoy each others company just fine.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 09:35AM  
paddlinjoe: "Additional items of interest that you can start at home and carry with you would be bird watching, learning the plants, star gazing... On our trip last spring my brother in law wanted to bring a telescope, so we did. Not something I would bring on every trip, but it was fun to see the moons around Jupiter. "


I think getting better and plant and tree identification is a good idea. It's something that I've wanted to do. I might start here soon and then just improve upon that then. Good suggestion!
 
02/19/2019 10:19AM  
The thing I miss the most is the weather updates. So I bring a weather radio. They give a much more in depth weather report on the top of the hour. I like to know when bad storms are coming. Although the last 2 times in the BWCA we have had cell coverage so I was able to see a quick look at the radar, but then I put my phone away. But I would never go without my weather radio.
 
mjmkjun
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02/19/2019 10:21AM  
When a certain call of the loons does not sound as haunting or lonely then I know I have transitioned from elec grid-connected to wilds-connected. Roughly 36 hrs for me (solo).
 
02/19/2019 10:37AM  
Never considered myself that weird but maybe I am (well not thru childhood so much). Absolutely 0 problems with disconnecting. I have tripped with other board members, and am aware of some of that, just not what extent. I have traveled solo since my 20's, regularly. I tend to be relaxed most all times, can sit and stare at the rocks and trees with a smile on. Probably why I enjoyed bow hunting and squirrel hunting so much, sitting still in 1 spot loosing track of time. I do take books to read, can putz with camp stuff for hours, enjoy spending time prepping and cooking even solo meals.
Just never concerned about how I could keep busy, time takes care of itself for me.
After 4 decades I'm realizing that it's not common, and may be difficult for some folks to spend some idle time just being.
Something else for me to be thankful about!

butthead
 
flynn
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02/19/2019 10:41AM  
I work in IT and am almost 30. I grew up with the advancement of technology and soaked it all up like a sponge. As a result, I spend 90% of my time on a computer. I don't like playing around on my phone if I'm out and about because I can always check things when I am back at the computer, which I inevitably will be soon enough. I was a Boy Scout (could say you're one for life if you take it to heart) and somewhat enjoyed the striking removal of the internet and computers from the things to do for a week at a time, but believe me I was eager to get back online and chat with my friends.

These days I yearn to get away from technology. It is so ingrained in my life that the idea of spending a week in the wilderness away from the news, from drama, from social competition... the idea of spending a week away from everything that seems to drag us down these days (at least it drags me down) gets me so excited. I can't fish easily at home (live in an apartment a few miles from a lake, no boat/canoe yet), can't get into a forest like SNF at home, can't get scenery like the SNF/BWCA at home, can't hang in my hammock at home, etc... for me, I am EAGER to disconnect. It lets me do so many things I can't do at home.

Someone mentioned "don't sit in the tent, you can do that at home" - this is HUGE. I was overseas with a friend a few years ago and we planned on going out at night to see the lights and take photos, but we took a nap right beforehand. It took me a while to settle down and just as I was about to fall asleep, my friend woke up and wanted to head out. I was groggy and really didn't want to pull myself out of it. But you know what made me suck it up and go out? I thought "I can lay in bed at home any day. I can't be overseas any day." So I got up, we went out, and some of my absolute favorite photos from that trip were shot that night. I was so glad we went out.

On both of my trips last year, when we weren't traveling, there were times when a few hours would simply disappear. My friends and I would be sitting around in the morning, chatting, eating, cleaning up from breakfast, drinking coffee, then we'd go out fishing, then we'd come back and clean the fish, we'd relax and get away from the sun for a bit... and somehow, those times of hanging around camp spanned 2-3 hours. It was crazy. Up there time can go really slow, but sometimes you wake up, make breakfast, hang out for a bit, and somehow it's already dinner time. And then you blink and 3 days have gone by.

My recommendation for ways to spend time would be:
* Fishing (of course)
* Photography (bring the camera literally everywhere you go)
* Exploration of those little areas that I see on maps and wish I had more time to investigate like little creeks and bays
* Exploration of nearby dead-end lakes
* Hiking around the site or around an area you found while exploring the lake
* Hang in the shaded hammock
* Write in a journal
* Read a book
* Make more coffee
* Film all the things

I filmed both trips last year on my GoPro (in addition to photography) and AFTER editing the snot out of the footage (and ignoring 3/4 of it which ended up basically being me talking about how the group is doing, what we're up to, what we're going to do later, etc), I still have about 2 hours of footage for each trip. That includes slow-mo 120/240fps footage that I included as B-roll and whatnot. Because the GoPro is waterproof, I have much more documentation of the trip on the GoPro than I do in just photos, since my Fuji camera is not waterproof and therefore stayed away on drizzly days and during travel (unless we saw a very scenic area at a portage).

I haven't done a solo trip yet, but I would love to, maybe 3 nights with not a ton of travel in so I can spend most of my time fishing, exploring, and photographing the area. I think that is how I will spend most of my time, filling the gaps with eating, hammocking, journaling, and napping. Since I would be in a solo canoe and can go anywhere I wanna go, I would definitely do a lot of exploring of little areas, not only to kill time, but to look for awesome photo ops and charming areas to simply sit and listen to the birds and enjoy the scenery. I have not been completely alone, away from technology and people, for a very long time, maybe never. I know I have no shortage of things to enjoy and immerse myself in out in the BWCA which is why I would love to do it, despite never having done it before. I am a pretty introverted person so I'm not afraid of being alone.

One thing I just remembered; I love music and it is a huge part of my life and my mood, but I don't bring any for the wilderness. I listen to so much music, often repetitively (e.g. same album all day on repeat while working, no radio because I know what I wanna listen to) that I see no need for it in the wilderness. None of the music I listen to really fits a wilderness scenario anyway so it would be out of place. My music up there is the chirping of the birds, the wind through the trees, the call of a loon, the crackle of a fire. This is part of my disconnection from society and technology and it is important to my experience. I can listen to music any day. I can't listen to loons and a crackling fire any day. Even midday I prefer the natural sounds of wind and water slapping against rock. Morning silence is sacred.

I just finished my coffee so I apologize for the rambling! I think there is plenty to do up in the BWCA, and I would really encourage one to get out there and see it, and not stay holed up at camp if conditions allow for other activities. But you know what? It's your trip and you should do what you want to do. If a little music helps calm your nerves, or if you really enjoy naps, or you don't wanna paddle in the rain, that's OK too. You are out there to relax in the wilderness, and no one can tell you how to enjoy it better than yourself. As long as you don't spoil the experience for others (playing music when they don't want any, never wanting to go out fishing/exploring which messes with a group dynamic and canoe logistics, eating all the snacks) I don't think there is any wrong way to enjoy the trip.

Embrace the disconnect. There are so many things up there that you just can't get at home and that's what I yearn for. A break in the regularity of everyday life. Time spent surrounded by nature, away from the stresses of life and society. Simply being in the BWCA, even if it's cloudy and rainy and windy (as long as I'm not trying to reach camp at 5pm in these conditions), is usually enough to make me happy. Everything else is just gravy.
 
02/19/2019 10:42AM  
I have discovered that in this day and age, boredom is a rare and novel experience, a very interesting one.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 11:02AM  
Canoearoo: "The thing I miss the most is the weather updates. So I bring a weather radio. They give a much more in depth weather report on the top of the hour. I like to know when bad storms are coming. Although the last 2 times in the BWCA we have had cell coverage so I was able to see a quick look at the radar, but then I put my phone away. But I would never go without my weather radio."


I plan on reading in the gear forum about small weather radios and pick one up. Generally I only look at the weather when I'm heading on an outdoors trip because that's when you are exposed.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 11:04AM  
mjmkjun: "When a certain call of the loons does not sound as haunting or lonely then I know I have transitioned from elec grid-connected to wilds-connected. Roughly 36 hrs for me (solo). "


Your new normal will have arrived.
 
OCDave
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02/19/2019 11:10AM  
Take a chair and place it on a scenic overlook. Sit down and enjoy. Breathe in. Breathe out. Repeat. Continue to do this for as long as your trip allows.

A hammock can serve as an alternative for the chair but, I would caution this would be only for advanced relaxation. A hammock is preferred after dark on clear nights when infinite starscapes present themselves.

Some might feel the need to intentionally occupy their mind. This is absolutely unnecessary and may actually impair outcomes. An unoccupied mind allows for mental wandering, exploration and discovery.

If you are struck by the urge to get up and do something active, limit that to mindless non-productive activities. Skipping rocks is a typical mindless, non-productive activity that has been historically effective.

Some find accessorizing can enhance the experience. Consider adding a cup of hot coffee and timing your sitting to coincide with the sunrise or perhaps an alcoholic beverage to coincide with sunset.

Traveling with a group can make it more difficult to acheive the 'total vegitative" state considered to be the ultimate goal but, make time for yourself. With luck and total surrender, you may be able to "Vegg out".

Good Luck


 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 11:24AM  
butthead: "Never considered myself that weird but maybe I am (well not thru childhood so much). Absolutely 0 problems with disconnecting. I have tripped with other board members, and am aware of some of that, just not what extent. I have traveled solo since my 20's, regularly. I tend to be relaxed most all times, can sit and stare at the rocks and trees with a smile on. Probably why I enjoyed bow hunting and squirrel hunting so much, sitting still in 1 spot loosing track of time. I do take books to read, can putz with camp stuff for hours, enjoy spending time prepping and cooking even solo meals.
Just never concerned about how I could keep busy, time takes care of itself for me.
After 4 decades I'm realizing that it's not common, and may be difficult for some folks to spend some idle time just being.
Something else for me to be thankful about!

butthead"


I've spent the last 25 just jam-packed booked. The last year I've had to learn how to not be so busy. It has been as difficult as I expected. I was almost lured back into coaching but I resisted and I'm glad I did.
 
andym
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02/19/2019 11:40AM  
I haven’t soloed so I don’t know what that is like.

Not on a solo, I am connected to people: the people I am with. And those connections are so deep and wonderful that I’ve never missed the other connections. It may help that my wife and I trip together and with other close friends and family.

Other than those people, I never tire of simply watching nature. There’s always something new to notice or something old to appreciate. Really watch the colors change through a sunrise or sunset. And do that for at least an hour. Last trip I noticed how the sunrise reaches deeper and deeper into coves across the lake as it comes up. That was wonderful. Look for the small things and you will always be engaged. And hey, if there is a big thing like a moose watch it for as long as possible. We once spent an entire day, sunrise to dark to watching one moose. So nice of him to hang out near us and so glad we took full advantage.

I do find myself reaching for my cell phone for two things: to take a picture and to look things up. Of course we have cameras with us. It’s just a reflex to go for my cell phone. For looking things up, I bring a few small field guides with us and then try to write down and remember questions for when we get back to the cabin where I have a good library of books about the region.

BTW, I live a super connected life at home and work with colleagues and family spread around the world. I think I’m relieved to leave that behind for a while. It is pretty hard to break those connections except by going into the woods. So I value that.
 
andym
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02/19/2019 11:47AM  
boonie: "I have discovered that in this day and age, boredom is a rare and novel experience, a very interesting one. "


I’ve read some articles recently about the value of boredom for concentration and creativity. If you can’t sit with yourself and always need stimulation then you can have trouble facing difficult thought problems. Our phones provide constant escape from boredom and so hurt our ability to be quiet and concentrate.
 
Gadfly
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02/19/2019 12:16PM  
Being classified as a millennial I can admit that I probably spend more time on my phone than I should on a day to day basis. I can also say that I have zero issue disconnecting when I go on a trip. I do bring my phone along for my trips but it is only used for taking pictures and an alarm for the morning as I like to be on the lake fishing before the sun comes up most mornings.
 
02/19/2019 05:17PM  
I came across a quote recently that I can only paraphrase now.

All the trouble in the world comes from man's inability to sit quietly by himself.
 
RetiredDave
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02/19/2019 07:16PM  
nctry: "Wow, sure... bring a book. But this is your chance to take in the country you are spending great effort to get to. If your not going to fish, how about a little exploring... Check out your map and see if there is a small creek or something to sneak up or just paddle the lake. Maybe a little hike... Just don't hole up in your tent... you can do that in your back yard. Gather wood start a fire and kick back with your book. But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities. "


This is exactly what I would have said if I had thought of it first!

Dave

 
hobbydog
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02/19/2019 07:22PM  
Like Butthead stated....time takes care of itself. I solo a couple weeks at a time and the days fly by, But I move almost every day. I let the weather and the wind dictate to some extent but each day is a new day and new things to discover. Since you are going with a group, talk to them about it and what they want out of the trip. Speaking of talk, when I go with a group, too much talk can be really distracting, at least for me. Turn the thoughts inward. Live in the moment, take what comes your way. Spend some time looking up at night, watch the moon rise, Get up before sunrise, best time of the day. Take a nap by day and stay up late into the night. Leave the book at home, it will just be extra weight to portage and you will be too busy to read. A week might sound like a long time but that time goes so fast.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/19/2019 07:26PM  
OCDave: "Take a chair and place it on a scenic overlook. Sit down and enjoy. Breathe in. Breathe out. Repeat. Continue to do this for as long as your trip allows.

A hammock can serve as an alternative for the chair but, I would caution this would be only for advanced relaxation. A hammock is preferred after dark on clear nights when infinite starscapes present themselves.

Some might feel the need to intentionally occupy their mind. This is absolutely unnecessary and may actually impair outcomes. An unoccupied mind allows for mental wandering, exploration and discovery.

If you are struck by the urge to get up and do something active, limit that to mindless non-productive activities. Skipping rocks is a typical mindless, non-productive activity that has been historically effective.

Some find accessorizing can enhance the experience. Consider adding a cup of hot coffee and timing your sitting to coincide with the sunrise or perhaps an alcoholic beverage to coincide with sunset.

Traveling with a group can make it more difficult to acheive the 'total vegitative" state considered to be the ultimate goal but, make time for yourself. With luck and total surrender, you may be able to "Vegg out".

Good Luck"


Good thoughts. I'll give it a go. I'm one to not enjoy the relaxation type of yoga because I like to think. I get a bunch of thinking done when I think. However, I'll give your suggestions a try.

Oh yeah..... it will have to be tea or hot chocolate, I've only had one sip of coffee in my life. Will it still work with no coffee?
 
nooneuno
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02/19/2019 07:28PM  
RetiredDave: "
nctry: "Wow, sure... bring a book. But this is your chance to take in the country you are spending great effort to get to. If your not going to fish, how about a little exploring... Check out your map and see if there is a small creek or something to sneak up or just paddle the lake. Maybe a little hike... Just don't hole up in your tent... you can do that in your back yard. Gather wood start a fire and kick back with your book. But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities. "



This is exactly what I would have said if I had thought of it first!


Dave


"

From Nctry:"But keep an eye or ear open... there are things going on around you,,, don't miss these opportunities."
Truer words have never been spoke.

One of the greatest challenges to being unconnected is the realization that one has to relearn to focus on things. Many people who spend their lives deeply intertwined with the online world fail to realize that they are constantly being force fed what is "important", what to focus on, what should be worth their time and energy. From a colony of ants carrying away the smallest of particles from your previous meal, to the thieving red squirrels, to the majestic bald eagle patiently awaiting a single fish to venture too close to the waters surface, things that go on in a never ending dance whose music we often overlook yet the chorus goes on in perpetuity.
 
02/19/2019 10:20PM  
I solo and on 2 trips last year I tried to do something to get back to the" beginning", kind of a if I really had to type project. In May I made a bow drill set using only my pocket knife and a boot lace. After at least a dozen tries over 3 days and a lot of smoke I did get a flame but could not keep it going. Thank God for Bic!! In July I tried to master the David and Golith type sling shot. The bow drill was a roaring success compared to the sling shot.

My point is your on an adventure in the wilderness so do adventurous things. Read ,explore, try new things even if you smack yourself in the head with a rock from a gd sling shot.

I should point out that I am of an age when the phone was on the kitchen wall and when you played a game it was Monoply so being unconnected feels normal to me.
 
02/19/2019 10:20PM  
I solo and on 2 trips last year I tried to do something to get back to the" beginning", kind of a if I really had to type project. In May I made a bow drill set using only my pocket knife and a boot lace. After at least a dozen tries over 3 days and a lot of smoke I did get a flame but could not keep it going. Thank God for Bic!! In July I tried to master the David and Golith type sling shot. The bow drill was a roaring success compared to the sling shot.

My point is your on an adventure in the wilderness so do adventurous things. Read ,explore, try new things even if you smack yourself in the head with a rock from a gd sling shot.

I should point out that I am of an age when the phone was on the kitchen wall and when you played a game it was Monoply so being unconnected feels normal to me.
 
02/19/2019 10:20PM  
I solo and on 2 trips last year I tried to do something to get back to the" beginning", kind of a if I really had to type project. In May I made a bow drill set using only my pocket knife and a boot lace. After at least a dozen tries over 3 days and a lot of smoke I did get a flame but could not keep it going. Thank God for Bic!! In July I tried to master the David and Golith type sling shot. The bow drill was a roaring success compared to the sling shot.

My point is your on an adventure in the wilderness so do adventurous things. Read ,explore, try new things even if you smack yourself in the head with a rock from a gd sling shot.

I should point out that I am of an age when the phone was on the kitchen wall and when you played a game it was Monoply so being unconnected feels normal to me.
 
WonderMonkey
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02/20/2019 07:39AM  
FYI I'm not sure why this is being focused about being online. It's being connected with the world and all the inputs that are there, then those being gone and replaced with other inputs that are not "the norm". It's not about being on the internet, on the phone on the internet, etc.

I feared it would take that turn. Possibly I wasn't clear enough.
 
02/20/2019 08:06AM  
Only solo outdoors trip I've done was backpacking in Red River Gorge. Have to say, I was bored to tears, and didn't much care for it. Pretty sure I could do a solo canoe trip though, if only because of the addition of fishing.
 
02/20/2019 11:40AM  
We had a wilderness canoe-tripping history of 43 years before we went to cabin weeks and day trips. Our first trip was in 1971. There were, with just a few exceptions, only two of us. Never more than three or four.

Because our time stretched over more than four decades, being "unconnected" meant different things in different eras. At first, it was being away from our small children. We had consciously made the decision that canoe-tripping would be for just the two of us, and we left our two children with people we trusted. Still, it was a challenge to put them out of mind sometimes, and to be "in the moment." More for me, I think (as the full-time Mom the rest of the time) than for Spartan1.

As time went along, the focus changed. It became not only about the kids, but about work concerns, and about family concerns, too. Aging parents, siblings with injuries, planning for projects at school and church for me, and at work for Spartan1. We even had a family move in there one time. Lots of distractions. And of course in later years, we became more active online, so then we could miss our daily "fix" at QuietJourney and BWCA.com, as well as emailing back and forth with family and friends. And multiple health issues as well.

Still, with all of this on our minds, I think we were quite successful at letting go. We planned trips with adventure, but after a few years we learned the joy of an occasional "layover day." Even on travel days, we tried to stop early enough to have some down time in camp. We didn't fish, so that wasn't a factor.

I liked to take a book along, but sometimes didn't even read it much. I would try to find a quiet little place off a ways from the fire grate area--maybe on a rock by the lake, maybe in a little grove of trees, sometimes quite sheltered (I called those my "grotto"), sometimes basking in the sun. I would have my camera nearby, always. And yes, a cup of hot chocolate or tea is fine. I loved my coffee, but my morning hot chocolate was a special treat. I recommend it!

And I would listen. I found I could spend hours just listening. At first you don't hear much, but if you just sit quietly, you soon hear birds, insects, the rustle of a small furry creature, the crack of your partner out in the forest looking for firewood. If you keep your eyes open, you will see dragonflies catching mosquitoes, ants going on their busy way, huge spiders on the surface of the water, tiny little plants like starflowers. I called them "Small Wonders." Sometimes I would lie on my belly in the woods and photograph mushrooms. Sometimes I would lie on my back on a warm rock and watch an eagle in the tree overhead. One time a Comma butterfly came and perched on my arm while I was sitting on my stool by a tree. Another time I watched a dragonfly emerge from its carapace on the surface of a rock at the edge of Long Island Lake. It took a long time to dry off its wings, and it flew up and perched on my knee right before it took off on its maiden flight!

Being in the moment became very easy for me. Part of it was having a journal to write in, and a camera to catch the memories. I would always make a photo album, or later on a photo book (on Snapfish) as a reminder of the trip. So I was looking at things through my lens.

We only did a base-camping trip once and I didn't like it. Too much time to sit around. I enjoyed being on the go and seeing a lot of different places. I am not advocating sitting around all of the time. But I am advocating finding alone time, time to see more than just the activity and the group interactions. I am suggesting being in the moment, focusing on the "here and now" while you have the chance.

We did that. I am glad that we did. Because now that we can no longer do wilderness trips. we have no regrets. At least I don't. We had trips as short as four days, and one that was 22 days. BWCA, Quetico, Algonquin, Temagami, and even a river in Michigan. Every one was unconnected, and every one was memorable. For me, being unconnected was the best part of all. :-)

 
andym
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02/20/2019 01:10PM  
WonderMonkey: "FYI I'm not sure why this is being focused about being online. It's being connected with the world and all the inputs that are there, then those being gone and replaced with other inputs that are not "the norm". It's not about being on the internet, on the phone on the internet, etc.


I feared it would take that turn. Possibly I wasn't clear enough."


For other forms of being unconnected I think I've just always been rather "in the moment." If I'm with family then I'm focused on them. But when we are apart I don't focus on them much. Same with friends and coworkers. There may be ways this makes me not the world's greatest friend because I can lose track of people I haven't seen for a while. But when I'm on a trip I am focused on what is around me and not pulled by what I'm away from.

Being away from my wife might be different but we trip together. And I said might because we spent quite a bit of time apart when we were first together and often couldn't communicate for about a month. So we got used to that.
 
mjmkjun
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02/20/2019 02:19PM  
WonderMonkey: "... It's being connected with the world and all the inputs that are there, then those being gone and replaced with other inputs that are not "the norm".
...
"


"It really doesn't matter if being "that connected" is right or wrong, it just "is"."
~quote from da WonderMonkey~
 
MidwestMan
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02/20/2019 03:07PM  
My first trip to BWCA was when I was 13 years old (I'm now 26 years old and have 8 BWCA trips and 1 Quetico trip under my belt). The thing that sticks out most in my memory about that first trip was not the grueling portages or the many miles paddled. I struggled with being so 'unconnected'. We did not see many people that first trip and I was unaccustomed to no phone access, no hot shower, no burgers. As the years passed and I became a more experienced woodsman (although there are certainly many, many more knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced outdoorsmen than myself on this forum), I grew to greatly enjoy being 'unconnected'. At 26 years old, I have many friends constantly glued to their cell phones or social media. I do not have any forms of social media and I only use my cell phone for work related reasons. Everyone is different and everyone has the right to be as 'connected' or 'unconnected' as he or she chooses. For me, I truly believe my first BWCA trip still profoundly impacts the way I live life socially and technologically on an every day basis.
 
02/20/2019 04:14PM  
Ben hinted at it, the looking with creativity. I struggled like others and have found ways to keep myself occupied, and thanks for some new ideas... Then I found my little boy who was on an explore. I was lucky to grow up on a farm when it was safe to just wander off for the day and explore. The BWCA and other wilderness tripping is allowing that little boy to wander off and explore again. No distress in that, only de-stress.
 
mpeebles
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02/20/2019 05:23PM  
Pretty much agree with nctry's philosophy on what to do although I'd like add something. I went on my first solo, a two week trip, two years ago. What I found is that it took me a couple of days to move all the clutter out of the space between my ears (unconnected). Once that happened I gradually connected with myself and my environment. Might sound a little corny but I found certain peace during that trip as I was truly OK with myself.
 
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