Wow - that'a a lot of responses. Thanks to all. I'll respond to those that I can.

PC2K - I hike usually in low "mountains" (1500 feet or so) near Penobscot Bay, mostly. The upgrade to the sweatshirt will be wool - I loathe fleece. Can't stand the way it feels, or even looks. I have never used the handwarmers - you're saying they don't work very well? I guess I should field test them. They are small, light and cheap. But I could live without them. Mebbe keep'em in the truck, but not if they don't work. I was really thinking of having them on hand for others to use.

The dishcloth isn't for dishes. Come to think of it - I'm not sure what the heck it is for. Gone. Thanks. By the way, everything is always wet in the Maine woods.

I guess you're right about the lightsticks. One less thing I have to buy.

Nighthiker - I may have mentioned that I wouldn't take this entire load on a dayhike. The bag is also used as a bougout bag. I actually don't have the long john top - that's a future upgrade. The pants might just stay on a long hike, though, because I always hike in shorts. It gets cold (and buggy) in the Maine woods at night. I amthinking about two 50' hanks of paracord instead of the rope. Would only need one on a hike, but nice to have more for bugout. Man, I really like towels. I'll replace them with one camp towel. I really like towels. The crystal lite is purely to mask the taste of water. I don't like water and never, ever drink it. I haven't had a glass of water in twenty years, I'm sure. I'm a Gatorade freak.

Ironraven - silk - excellent idea. That's the way I'll go. Had boots in the car - have to get new ones. Will, in Maine. Just started thinking about a hammock - I think it's a good idea. Looks like I'll eighty-six the tarp. I'll just keep it in the truck. Thanks.

raydarkhorse - the Buck was a mistake, which is why it's just keeping a spot warm for a fixed blade. Really thinking about a Griptillian or a Ritter. Funding issues at the moment.

Be_Prepared - L.L. Bean is a great store if you want to look pretty. There's a good outdoor store in Rockport, called Maine Sport, and I know a few "redneck" stores and gun shops.

MOAlan - never tried a baldder. Seems gimmicky to me.

big_al - you're right. I never weigh myself. Thought it might be interesting to keep track. But I was probably being defensive - some of you guys know every spec of every piece of gear you have. I can't even remeber if it's QuickTinder or TinderQuick (or something else).

silent_weapon - mebbe I'll try a cheapie. Still seems kinda geeky to me - but I carry two towels and a dishcloth. I really like towels.

Okay - thanks for all the feedback. I'm gonna lighten my load forthwith.

Except for the towels.