RE: tree umbrella
Well I thought it was right up there with the "Deer View Mirror" until the forecast for opening day of last years PArifle season was hard rain most of the day. I threw it in my pack, (porta roof or something similiar) It saved the day. While others scurried back to camp to dry off I was able to stay on stand all day, mostly dry. Some wetness wicked in from leaning my back against the tree but nothing unbearable.
All day I was saying that beer commercial..Here's to you Mr. Tree Umbrella inventor!