Backpacking

Andrew and I went backpacking up the Mourne Mountains monday night. It was only an hour hike, which wasn't too bad, but because we couldn't go until after I got off work, we didn't leave until 6:30 and then didn't get started hiking until about 8:30 or 9, due to parking problems which aren't worth going into. Anyhow, so we got to the site around 10, which was fine because it doesn't get dark until after 11. Then we discovered midgies, which are little bugs, smaller than mosquitos that love human flesh, particulary Andrew flesh. We, okay mostly Andrew, got eaten alive trying to get the tent up. Once it was up we threw everything in and basically just stayed in there most the night. The next morning was beautiful and sunny. Although while making breakfast we discovered flies that also like human flesh and dig their way into your skin and make you bleed. I personally was not a fan. Thankfully we walked up to a little waterfall near our campsite where there were no flies and no midgies. Not to mention our tent was in a big valley, with no trees or bushes or big rocks or anything to hide behind, and no toilets within reasonable walking distance. And there were two popular hiking trails on either side, which were frequented by many hikers. Needless to say, it wasn't easy finding a way to relieve oneself. So, due to the lack of bug repellent and toilet facilities, we decided to just stay one night. Andrew came home burnt on the back of his neck and COVERED with at least 200 bug bites. Brittany came home burnt on her arms and back of her neck, with 20 bug bites, and heat exhaustion which made her feel terrible for the rest of the day. But we did have a nice time at the waterfall. That was definitely the highlight. I think we would consider going again IF we had plenty of bug spray and maybe some citronella candles too just in case, and we camped closer to the toilet facilities and brought plenty of water. It was an adventure anyway. :)