Congrats on getting a bull! And good on you for sharing as much info as you could...this would have been super helpful the first year I was planning for an elk trip back in '09...I didn't even know what a podcast was then.
Looks like you forgot to post the one additional page titled "Backcountry Crocs"

...but I guess those are an easy decision with no real competitors...
Sounds like you got it bad just as I did...'10 was my first hunt and I've been out west each year since...total elkoholic. I'm in Western IL as well and the Scheel's store you referenced is a grown man's candy store...I try to get there once a year if i can.
Final thought...the whole time I'm reading your post I'm thinking this guy needs to chase elk with bow next...warm September afternoons and t-shirts some days. You guys definitely paid your dues with that weather...congrats again.