Me Tarzan, You RJ

RJ and I had an adventure last night. We ventured to the Church Bowl climbing area where I lead my first climb. It was the very easy Aunt Fanny's Pantry (5.4 chimney). We reached the top and rappelled safely, so the climb was a success. For me, it was a big step forward because I was placing protection and completely relying on my own skill for the first time. Kind of like being the nozzleman on the first line at a structure fire. You've practiced everything in simulations, but facing the real thing for the first time with no one in front of you presents a new level of challenge - and a warm feeling of accomplishment afterward.

We're working today, then we'll leave early tomorrow (Wake up, RJ!) for an overnight backpacking trip.