Trying to figure out what backpack to buy for a hiking trip can be a daunting process. It's important that you spend time shopping around to find the right pack to fit your needs and the needs of your hike. The size and type of backpack greatly depends on what you will be carrying.

You'll need to carry all provisions and equipment you intend to use on your trip. First off, start with laying out what you'll absolutely need, i.e. tent, sleeping bag, first aid kit, etc. You'll also need to determine how much water you'll need to bring. A good rule of thumb is about a gallon of water per day; a little less if you'll be able to melt snow or purify natural water resources. Bringing excessive amounts of water will weigh you down so try not to overestimate.

You'll consume a large amount of calories when you're hiking so take plenty of high calorie food. Bring food that is small in size but is filling, lightweight and has a high calorie content. Hiking is not a time to diet since your endurance depends on your intake. Nutrition bars make great sources of energy and are perfectly proportioned and packaged. A good rule of thumb is between 1 and 2 pounds of food per day. If you plan on fishing then think of it as adding to your food; don't depend on it since you could very well not catch enough to eat.

Now determine the total amount of size and weight you'll be carrying. This will determine the type of backpack you'll need to have. A mid size is sufficient for a day or two hike but if you'll be camping for longer periods of time you'll probably need a full size pack which can carry over 50 pounds. Make sure you purchase one with excellent support such as waist and chest straps and ensure there is an internal frame. The backpack should also have sufficient padding, straps for your sleeping bag, and easy to access outside compartments. Don't penny pinch; you usually get what you pay for.

Once you have your backpack and know what you're carrying in your backpack consider how much you're physically able to haul. A 50 pound bag may be fine for a mile or two but consider how long you'll be hiking and the type of terrain. Pack your bag, strap it onto your back and do some test runs. This will help build up your strength and better gauge how much you'll realistically be able to carry. Now you're ready for your hike!

Gardening in and of itself is an art form. And the art of fine gardening is just that, an art. Fine gardening may mean many things to many people, but to me fine gardening means more than just a garden. It encompasses all that's good and graceful in gardening and combines them to make one garden that is the epitome of all your dreams.

My love of gardening does just come from the finished product, but from the hours of love that I spend planning and designing it - from the moment an idea comes to me to the pleasure of seeing it come to fruition. Anyone who steps into view of my garden should gain an appreciation for the art in it, not just the size or shape of the plants. It should be a place that is peaceful and calm, where people can enjoy spending their time.

A water feature - something that produces a soothing sound continuously - is a must for me. A nice lotus or water lily for some color, and maybe even a few fish. Some ferns and leafy plants around the pond, and this oasis is complete.

Ideally I would love a big tree to stand in a corner of the garden, with a luscious velvety dark brown trunk that I can just about span with my arms, overflowing with vibrant green leaves spilling onto the ground in heedless abandon. Since I might not always get what I want, I'll settle instead for a few saplings that will one day fulfill my wish.

Since green is my target for the moment, I'd also see about laying a lovely shady lawn that you can sink your bare feet into when taking a turn about your garden.

I love the idea of a Zen garden, but prefer colors and lots of plants, so I would incorporate this feature into my fine gardening efforts by placing a path, naturally made out of rough hewn stone, zigzagging in a leisurely course through the garden.

As a finishing touch, there's a small alcove, hidden from view until you're in the garden, with a nice view of the entire garden, some shade and a nice hammock or chair to sit and enjoy the results of my work.

In the distance, several large rocks will break up the greenery, surrounded by a few flowers for color.

In the midst of all this natural splendor I'll walk through the garden, feeling the satisfaction and peace that comes from a job well done.

Our mothers are phenomenal. Well, there may be exceptions, but if your mother is anything like mine, then she's an outstanding individual. I didn't really see this until after high school, but now days I see it clearer than ever. My mother was always there when I grew up. She took care of me, even when I was annoying and bratty. More on Buying A Birthday Present For Mom

Raising healthy kids is a concern for every parent. Nonetheless, keeping track of kids health can be a challenge nowadays. Although there is a lot of information out there, sometimes it is hard to process it all. How much attention, for example, should be paid to kids nutrition? How about daily exercise? More on Kids Health Habits Can Last A Lifetime