I'm trying to reduce my gear load...but need the variety of footwear because I will be visiting farming friends...and doing who-knows-what outdoor activities with them. Maybe the shoes are dispensable...I'll have to think about that.
The warm gloves are a precaution. The cycling gloves are fingerless and would do little for keeping my hands warm if the weather gets cool.
I'm taking the book so I can have free vegetables. I don't have much money so I want to eat free as much as possible. I will be careful...if I'm not SURE the plant is edible, I won't eat it.

The shea butter I listed is what I'll use as a type of sun screen. That, and a long-sleeved white shirt...
Bug repellent...I guess I'll just ride fast enough they can't catch up...
I didn't really think about that...I like to stay away from chemicals and sprays as much as possible...
Why would I need earplugs? I've seen them in a few people's gear lists and am not sure why they would be necessary...

Thanks for the suggestions and concern...now you got me thinking!