I will be more than happy to help in any way I can. I have lead backpacking groups for the past couple of years. Not that it makes me an expert mind you, but I have learned many things through trial and error and by watching others I routinely backpack with.
BTW, If you ever come up near Tyler let me know. Maybe we will have an outing scheduled that you and your family can particpate in or just attend one of our meetings and meet some folks with like minds.
