RAS,
Great suggestion! The kids are always commenting on my increasing quantity of gray hair, so a cane would complete the image and be a useful tool at he same time. It would be a great alternative to my hiking staff in the above mentioned situation.

I can carry a knife in my bag, and plan too, but the selection is somewhat limited at the local stores. I am looking for a solid survival knife, like the one that USAF issues to there air crews. Any other recommendations? Even the local Army / Navy stores are limited in what they can carry here. Looks like a trip to New Hampshire is in order (any excuse to visit God's country!).