Time to upgrade from CB to HAM. Not looking to build a base, or expensive equipment. More like a handheld for trails and off grid emergencies. Guess the first step will be the paperwork. Anyone planning a class/exam in the near future??

Ok, So I have been a member for about a year, I try to attend events when I can, but schedule, and sanity tend to put me in a place that does not always include socializing. In short, I am a bit "odd"! I like getting to know people, but never know quite how to be social. Growing up as a child was "rough" (violence has made me a bit shy of opening myself to new friendships). Because of that, I have some issues... While I really do try to break out of that crap, sometimes I would rather be out in the woods without others, yet I also want to be a part of the group... I hope that makes some sort of sense to anyone. If you meet me at an event, please understand that I love talking about adventures and outings. I am always looking for new people to connect with... It's just that sometimes, I have to withdraw, so if I get quiet, or step away, please don't be offended. It's just my history and non military PTSD stepping into my way... again. This post was tough, I do not often feel safe opening this can... But I really do enjoy the meets and the few events I have been able to attend... SO I feel it is important to let you all know. I'm not so weird, I just have some history that gets in the way sometimes...

I will be registering in the next few weeks, who else is going??? Do we get a promo code for our group? June 20th is my go date... I'll be rolling from Kent, Wa...

Argh! I have mods/projects all in line to get ready for spring and summer... So little real estate on my little trailer, I need to mount holders for my CO2 tank, extinguisher, Hi-lyft, Rotopax gas and water, fold down Front Runner table/shelf... Still need to find a source for a fox-wing awning... On the Nissan Frontier, I need to mount the bed rack and cargo basket, figure out a slide or something for my not powered cooler. Also need to create and purchase parts for a solar system to plug in for the trailer... I have lots to do, but with the number of hours I have been pulling at work, the weekends and other down time just get used as recovery time... I think I need a group build kind of gathering (intervention)!!!

I am looking for a roof rack to finish the over bed storage/cargo project on my Frontier. Cheap or free?? Used, crusty, ugly... I can fix it... Pull it out of the weeds next to the garage?? OK, I can work with that... I'm in Kent, Wa. Whatcha got??

Left Kent just before 10am, Saturday, headed north on I5 to Arlington, then east to Darrington, and south on Mountain Loop hwy. Took a right at Clear creek road and up into the woods we went... One of my favorite areas to get away. After a short stop at Frog lake, the road up to the bridge is only about 7 miles, but it did get rough in several places. Just past the bridge is where I usually set camp. After a few hours at the creek/bridge, we headed back down to the Mtn loop and turned south. The loop hwy is open now, but lots of rough patches and big pot holes. Well worth the rattling of teeth, we got a few good shots here and there and stopped at Big Four for a few minutes to take a few more.

Working with Jeff at HEO to finalize the financing and build of a T3 for use with the Sanctuary, adventure camping for DV survivor families, and some private use for myself since I will be making the payments. Jeff has been amazing! Turning the numbers to make this happen! Later this year I may be doing a LOT more adventures. I have chatted with a couple of T3 owners and they love their trailers. Here's the model I'm going for. http://www.heoutfitters.com/trailers/t3/

Slowly getting the Frontier ready to overland, but need a few ideas for storage. Right now, my gear is pretty minimum. As I collect bits, I am trying to figure out where to store it all. I really like the 'Decked" system, and would love a dedicated off road style rtt/trailer. For now, I really need to figure out storage with what I have, or what I can buy cheaply. What does everyone do/use for storing all the gear they bring?

Not sure if this is the right place to post this. I would like to build a cross bar/rack for the bed of my Frontier. I have ideas and can buy the metal, but I need help with bending and such. Looking for three tube style cross bars to sit about 4-6" above the bed rails using angle metal to mount it to the rails, and with tabs welded on for adding a removable platform for stuff like a roof top style tent, or a cargo basket. The idea is to have everything interchangeable depending on the adventure. My bed is just 58.6" long and 58.69" inside the rail from side to side. I can weld (sort of), it's the measuring and bending to make it fit right that I'm clueless (and tool-less) about. I'd be happy to exchange some wrench time or other assistance. Need any non-automotive locksmith work? I'm certified, and have 18 years experience.

While I have not been to the NW Overland Rally, I will be working hard toward attending next year. This year the Non Profit I support has been way down on funds, so most of my cash is going there. While it is sad that I won't get to go, there are more important things I need to take care of. I hope everyone has amazing adventures, and takes lots of pictures and video.