Big decision...

...Do I get a new rucksack for the trip?
The one I used last Sunday was alright, but it wasn't really put to great test. Would it still be comfortable after 6 hours of hiking and climbing?
It's quite an old rucksack now but it's holding together fairly well, and would probably have enough room for essential supplies. (Food, drink, spare pair of socks, camera and possibly a fluffy Filbert Fox toy hanging off the back, so essentials only.) But I wonder if I should be looking to get a new one, with straps that connect around the waist for added back support and potentially less rubbing?
Answers on a postcard.

Making strides

Got some hiking boots today, one size larger than usual to accomodate a thick pair of socks. Got some socks as well; probably should have bought more than one pair.
I was expecting that good hiking boots wouldn't come cheap and I wasn't disappointed in that regard. The guy in the shop recommended wearing them around the house to break them in. Fair enough, I thought, although I can't imagine my family being too pleased about it. So instead I thought: How about giving them a try out tomorrow morning? In Bradgate Park? In the snow? Well let's face it - The conditions outside at the moment would be good practice for Nevis...

Anyway, I'll see how easy it is to pull myself out of bed tomorrow morning.