2013 Thruhike: my gear, what I changed and what I learned

[Praha4]

hey sadaddays: gear/clothing questions. Ques 1: You said you sent back your rainpants in VA, but later said you wore your rainpants when it got cold. (having sent back your convertible pants). Was it never cold enough in New England to need the rain pants or did your baselayer suffice in NE? Ques 2: which MH mid-layer zip up? a MH fleece jacket? Ques 3: ever have any problems with that food bag relative to rodents or bears? Ques 4: use a pack cover? (sorry if I overlooked that) Ques 5: did you use a hydration bladder/hoser (Platypus or Camelbak) or did you strictly carry water in your bottles/bladders? Ques 6: what did you carry in the line of a first aid kit? Were the liner socks good enough for you, or did you use any type Hydropel or Sportsslick to help prevent foot blisters? what socks did you use? merino or synthetic? thanks again, great info you shared! "Florida Mike"