I am a flatland California boy, preferring sun sand and surf to cold and the dreaded white stuff. But, thanks to my Uncle Sammy, and a few adventures of my own, I have been forced to get cold from time to time. Most, if not, all of the gear you took was much better than anything I have ever used, you lucky dog. In your experiment, I think that you should have tried a little more to make fire. Putting something warm in the tummy right before bedtime seems to help me sleep a little warmer. Some advocate doing some exercises right before bed, to supposedly get the blood flowing or something. Just don't overdo it and get all hot and sweaty.

As for tent pegs, I like, even tho they are heavier, good ole spikes (regular nails on steriods). I don't know what penny size they are, but they are about 10 inches long, cost about 50 cents each, and are available at any good hardware store or lumber yard. You can drive them into just about anything without them breaking. Some use aluminum gutter nails, but they will bend on you.

Gotta stop and get ready for another day in paradise, more later...