My initial concerns vs. the reality of it

"I'll get bored".  There is always much to do about the buisness of staying alive, fed and dry.  It's a rare solo day when I was actualy bored.

"I'll get lonely".  Yup I do.  But it has a value all it's own.  Some deep introspection can be had over 5 days of solitude.

"It's dangerous".  Yes, to a certain extent it is.  After you survive your first bad mistake alone....you will be forever impressed to "never do that again".  Most of my mistakes are water crossings related to weather.  Shipping water and a mile from shore on my 1st solo....that was all I needed in cold water to become a bit more savy.

"Bears".  Who cares.  I'm so tired by nightfall that I can share with a bear.  Just so it leaves me alone.


Now after several trips....the biggest concern to me seems to be personal injury/health crisis.  Couple trips ago I slipped down rock ledge 10' to the water.  Was almost certain I'd busted my ankle.  Instantly the thoughts started about how I'd exit with a bum leg.  After the pain subsided 10 minutes later...turned out just to be a bad sprain and I gimped on.

I have met folks who've had heart attack and stroke back in there.  And I always fear something like a kidney stone or appendicitis happening.  Some of these things....you just gotta figure you'll die back there.