Welcome to episode 88 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'm your host Heather Leichler.

And I'm Josh Leggler and this is the first 40 miles. Today on the

first 40 miles we'll talk about setting reasonable expectations and why it will make your trip even better.

Then our top five list will give you some great ideas for how to say happy birthday on the

trail without the mess of confetti or balloons.

Guess you could toss dirt up in the air and yell happy birthday!

Next on the summit gear review an upgrade for for your Nal gene water bottle that will save you the embarrassment of spilled water in your lap.

For today's backpack, Hack of the Week, learn the trick for getting closer to one more birthday.

All this, and that's about it.

Today on the first 40 miles.

We recently had a conversation with one of our listeners.

His name is Hiking Dad on Twitter.

And in the conversation he asked us,

So are you guys still recording in your tent of sound?

And that's how we first started recording,

but we've upgraded.

We are now recording in our closet.

Surrounded by soft stuff.

...