Equipment Update-and News from Kroka!

Hey all,

I just got a big packet from Kroka with all sorts of information about the semester, including an up-dated packing list! I have deleted everything that I don't need, though there are a few items, such as black writing pens, that I'm sure I can find. There are a few new items on the list, including a bike, but I will hopefully be able to use the one I have. It is pretty old, and I've put many miles on it, but we'll see what the repair shop can do with it.

There is going to be a Pre-Trip on June 1st and 2nd, so I will be able to meet the people who I will be living with next fall! There are currently only nine students signed up, so if you know anyone who would be interested, please spread the word. I will bring all the equipment I have so far to the Pre-Trip and get some feedback about what will work and what I need. I look forward to telling you all about it.

Speaking about looking forward, the Ecuadorian lunch is next week and there are almost 70 people signed up! The marathon is also in less than three weeks, so I will be doing my last long run this weekend and then begin tapering for the big day. Thank you all for you unwavering support, it makes a huge difference!

2013 Ecuador Semester Packing List ITEM NAME QTY DESCRIPTION Required? Where to buy? Kroka Online Store Drawing pencils 1 Set of 12 Drawing pencils, black and white, graphite. Required - - Eraser 2 Drawing pencil quality. Required - - Folders 2 Duo-tang paper folders with pockets. Required - - Pencils 1 For writing and sketching. Required - - Pens 5 Black Writing Pens. Required - - Ruler 1 Required - - Clothing Bathing Suit 1 Required - - Gloves, Biking w/fingers 1 If you have them bring them Required - - Gloves, Leather Work 1 1 pair inexpensive, insulated leather work gloves. Rigorous use during the semester will likely wear them out. Required - - Gloves, Mountaineering 1 Outer waterproof shell + fleece liner. We will be placing a special order for gloves. Please contact Linda if you are interested in purchasing gloves on the special order. Required - - Hat, Wide-brimmed 1 If you sunburn easily, this must be a wide-brimmed hat. Otherwise, a ball cap will suffice. Required Kroka Store Jacket, Patagonia Team 1 This year we are partnering with Patagonia to offer an amazing deal on a top-of-the-line GORE-TEX® Jacket at a special team price. It is a Patagonia Mens Triolet Jacket in Red Delicious, and it comes embroidered with the Kroka Logo. Available for $295 by special order only. We will be taking orders at the Pre-Trip Weekend. Please note that this item substitutes for both the Rain Coat and the Jacket Shell/Windbreaker. Required Kroka Store - Shorts, Bicycle (Padded) 1 Padded bicycle shorts are recommended but not required Required - - Socks, Mountaineering 1 Wool all cushion bottom Kroka store carries Darned Tough Brand Required Kroka Store - Sweater 2 One lightweight wool or polar fleece. No Cotton Sweatshirts. Required Kroka Store Vest, Warm fleece or wool 1 For high altitude treks and mountaineering Optional - - Wool Socks 6 pr Wool, various thicknesses, Kroka store carries Darned Tough Brand Required Kroka Store Footwear Boots Mountaineering 1 Recommended Scarpa, Charmoz of Vasque. Kroka Store has Vasque Required Kroka Store - Rock climbing shoes 1 if you own them bring them Optional - - Running Shoes 1 For dry-land use. Lightweight, compact sneakers with soles that will not damage the earth. Moccasins are appropriate for base camp programs. Required - - Sandals/Water Shoes 1 Must be durable and secure on your feet to be used in and out of the water. Keenes and Chacos are good options. Required - - Gear Bicycle 1 Any rugged mountain or hybrid bike will do. Should have a waterbottle holder and a rack for carrying paniers. If you do not own a bike, let us know. We have several available for rent for $125 for the semester. Required Kroka Store Rental - Sunglasses, Mountaineering 1 With safety strap (suitable for high Altitude mountaineering) JULBO is an excellent brand. Required - - Water Bottle 1 Wide mouth, 32 oz, non-leaking, with carabiner attached. Please no complex tubes, spouts, or nozzles! Required Kroka Store Personal Book 1 For pleasure reading, pack in a ziplock bag (Please choose a book appropriate for your reflective nature experiences Optional - - Hairbrush 1 Hairbrush or comb. Required - - Shampoo and Soap 1 Please bring small containers of shampoo and soap for showering. If you bring bar soap, it needs to have a case. Bring conditioner if you use it. Required - - Sunblock 1 Natural Required - - Toothbrush and case 1 It is a good idea to bring a spare, as they occasionally go missing. No electric toothbrushes. Required - - Toothpaste/powder 1 All natural, please. Powder is easier to share in a hygienic way. Required - -