Welcome to episode 65 of the first 40 miles.

If you're new to backpacking, or if you're hopelessly in love with someone who wants you to love

backpacking, then this podcast is for you. We'll talk about the essentials, how to lighten your load, and how to make the most of your time on the trail. I am your host Heather Legler.

And I'm Josh Legler. And this is the first 40 miles.

Today on the first 40 miles, if you're hopelessly in love with someone, we have a few ideas you can stow away in your pack or use on Valentine's Day.

Then on the Summit Gear Review, a mini blanket that's the perfect size for an outdoor romantic picnic for two.

Next on the backpack hack of the week we'll share a relationship saver for the one who refuses to stop and ask for directions.

And we'll wrap up this show with a little trail wisdom from a husband and wife team who loved to be outdoors and write books about it. All this and that's about it today on the first

40 miles. Josh if I were to write you a love note on the trail, it would say this,

Dearest Josh, you don't stink.

Love Heather.

Oh, that's so nice.

And maybe a little untrue as well.

Well, okay.

Our anniversary is pretty close to Valentine's Day.

And every year we take a trip.

It's usually been a trip where we stay in a hotel or B&B.

And this year, even though it's winter time and it's been really rainy in Oregon this winter,

we're determined to take a backpacking trip this time.

It's just going to be a quick overnighter, and we were going to do it the day after the day that we're recording this

podcast episode. The weather forecast called for a hundred percent chance of rain

both days that we would be out and a few activities came up for a couple of our kids.

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