I made a trip into Houston yesterday, as is typical of my Friday’s. After a quick stop at the house, I ventured over to REI where I managed to slam my door into some guy’s car. Technically, the wind did it. And of course this happened as he was walking out of the store – perfect. Luckily, he saw what had happened and wasn’t too concerned about the faint red line decorating the driver’s side door. Sweet.

I ended up spending an hour and a half inside this candy land of a store. I walked out with the Osprey Talon 22, Black Diamond Orbit (coolest little lantern ever), two Platypus 17oz collapsible water bottles, some gels (jet blackberry and mint chocolate), and a pack of electrolyte tabs. Successful trip.

Unfortunately, I awoke this morning to the pitter-patter of rain on our tin roof. I do love rain, but I was looking forward to spending the day outside. I guess I’ll have to wait until tomorrow to test out the Talon 22. Speaking of…this pack fits wonderfully. I was primarily focused on the Osprey Talon 22 and Camelbak Rim Runner. The Talon won the ‘pack loaded with a 10-pound pillow while sprinting down the backpack aisle’ test by a landslide.