The rain pants & hood I ordered from Showers Pass will not get here before I leave. Last evening, I received a call from the owner (Dave) saying his shipment of rain pants and hoods is in customs. He offered a refund. I still want the hood and may accept the pants. Yesterday, I contacted REI in Cary [where I travel Saturday morning for departure to Banner Elk], for a backup alternative. A sales rep (Keith) set aside 2 sizes of rain pants for me to try for fit. Now, I no longer have to wonder if the pants are in the mail. I’ll decide on Monday, if I still want the pants from Showers Pass.

I also need waterproof gloves. I have winter gloves, but my fingers have still gotten cold on rides. I plan to purchase a pair Pearl Izumi Lobster Mittens. They are water resistant.

The temperature for the Sunday morning roll out is expected to be in the 40s. There is a possibility of light rain on Sunday.