yosemitetrailblazer

Have you read the book called The Disappearing Spoon by Sam Kean? I just finished it and it showed me how to see the periodic table of elements from a different perspective. Do you have a favorite element, and why?

Howdy there! First off, congrats on your first thru-hike. Thru-hiking is a serious endeavor that should not be considered lightly, especially with the surge in interest thanks to books and films like Wild. I was a "trail angel" for hikers on the PCT when I lived in California's Sierra Nevada mountains and heard some horror stories from folks that didn't come as prepared as they should have been.

Now I have a few questions for you:
1. How many days worth of supplies do you carry at a time before going into town?
2. What kind of food do you carry/prepare on the trail?
3. I have been hiking/backpacking for years and I really want to do one myself, how did you know you were ready mentally, physically, and emotionally?
4. Ever consider hiking the Continental Divide or PCT?
5. What is the funniest situation you found yourself in?

Thanks and happy trails!

Do you know of any happy documentaries or specials on polar bears? Almost anything I find ends with the depressing message about melting ice and a loss of habitat. I just want to learn about polar bears and not cry!

Also, does Coca-Cola do anything (efforts/donations) for the bears due to their use in ads around the holidays? Thanks!

Are you personally wearing a hijab or going in public without it?

From what I have heard, a lot of Alzheimer's and dementia patients tend to become angry, mean, and irritable. However, when my grandfather was suffering with Alzheimer's he maintained his calm, sweet, and charming demeanor. What causes the harsh personality change in the former group of patients?

Thanks for doing this AMA!