9/22/09 Getting organized

9/22/09 Tuesday
Today was a day for organizing equipment. Org days are rewarding. They aren’t exciting or adventurous, but they can be quite satisfying. It would make me caught up. Getting my camping equipment in order gives me a sense of confidence that prepares me for my next adventure. I tackled Ellie Mae first. Out onto the picnic table came all bedding, then came the backpacking gear. I swept her out and dusted some of the Texas sand from her shelving. Then I looked to emptying the truck. With all the cooking and camping gear, and all the clothing and motorcycle gear, I chose to keep to simply put everything in its proper storage spot. The stray sock or pair of shoes went back into the duffel bag. The cooking gear and food went to its bin. The windshield got cleaned and the canoe straps checked. Things were now in order and I felt comfortable with whatever was next on my agenda.
The temperature is predicted to drop to 30 degrees tonight, and as the weather stripping on the tailgate had deteriorated during the trip, I decided to refresh the sealing material. I visited the local Ace Hardware in Silver City. I found weatherstripping as well as a set of curtain rods and some curtain material. I stopped for a haircut, and while chatting with the barber, learned of a home available for rent. 3 bed/2 bath for $700, 5 minutes outside the city. The big drawback to this community was that it was a deed restriction area. I headed back to camp with my supplies. Making curtains for Ellie Mae was an adventure in itself. I've next to no experience sewing, but using double sided tape I was able to fashion something to effectively enhance my privacy. Honestly, I don't know that I was ever camped within view of another campsite so as someone could see into my small windows, but drawing them closed in the evening gave me a sense of security. Maybe when the bears came to visit this evening they wouldn't peer in to see their dinner as I slept. I gathered wood and made a fire.