my drop bags are done. yea!

my drop bags are done and organized. this has been therapeutic in a way because as i put everything together, i was able to imagine what i might need and when. i used Lisa Smith-Batchen's master list as a guide and made three identical drop bags with everything that i think i might need or want in them. this way i can pick and choose as to what i want to use and when. i also made a universal drop bag in the form of a backpack that one of my kids will be in charge of and this will follow me to Robinson Flat, Michigan Bluff, Foresthill, Hwy 49 and No Hands. all the places that i will be seeing my crew. the other three drop bags will be at more low key aid stations like Red Star, Devil's Thumb and Rucky Chucky Far. below is what they look like if anyone is looking for ideas for up coming races.

western states has a restriction this year on the size of the drop bags. they recommended the size of a shoe box, anything much larger will risk the chance of being left behind. i am using cheap clear boxes from Wal-Mart. in them i have items that i wont find at the aid stations. extra socks, a towel, Gu, pain relievers and general stuff to make me feel good.



then i label everything that is inside the box so that i don't waste time looking for something that is not there. i tape this to the outside of the box. i also secure the box with a bungee cord to secure it.

i put the name of the aid station with my number and my name on bright paper and laminate this and then i used strapping tape to tape it to a large storage bag. the weather will not be damp for this race but it does serve still as a protection against wind, dust and people. if needed i can easily add water bottles to my bags or even a pair of shoes if i did not have a crew.