Twin boys. Toddler daughter. Hospital Tech Support. Writer. Runner. Gamer. Creating in public again.*

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Backpacks

Rose and Her Backpack

I guess my packing skills have rubbed off on Rose. At three years old, she loves packing her backpack, for pretend or when going somewhere. She spent the last two days prepping her backpack for today’s visit to her cousin’s house. Her bag was ready before she knew for sure she was even going there. The anticipation was unmatched.

I had to pull seven of the ten books out to help her, because she told me that bringing a second backpack would solve the problem. And even though it was too heavy for her, she said I could carry it in to help. That’s when I started recommending things she might not need.

A few other things she has: a water bottle on one side, and a cup on the other. A second pair of shoes, a few stuffed animals. Her glasses, and her Switch. Packed all by herself.

Proud dad moment.

Military Backpack (GoRuck GR1 21L)

I just purchased another GoRuck bag, the GR 21L. For over ten years now, it’s been my bag of choice. Different sizes, but basically the same bag.

I now own three GoRucks:

  • GR1 21L: the perfect size for everyday use
  • GR1 26L: too big for daily use, but perfect for traveling
  • GR Echo: a miniature version of all these bags that my wife will now use as a purse/diaper bag

I love GoRucks for being minimal and durable. They have an understated yet tactical look that blends in with whatever life throws at me. Whether it’s conferences, hiking, vacations, or daily use, this bag fits right in.

Here’s its origin story:

In 2008, while I was in Special Forces and Emily was in the CIA, we started GORUCK out of her house in war-torn West Africa. The goal was pretty simple: build a rucksack with life or death quality standards that would thrive in Baghdad and NYC, not to mention Côte d’Ivoire — and show people of all walks of life how to operate smartly and safely in some of the harshest environments in the world (using said rucksack). How to travel, how to train, how to get the most out of a life where adventure calls and tomorrow is never promised.