Climbing Bug

So it’s not only Abigail that’s got the climbing bug. I’ve been feeling the itch as well. Expanding her wall and setting routes partly satisfies it, but I need to get out and climb too.

Conveniently both girls are now signed up with Mom for Spanish class on Saturday mornings. That gives me just a few hours to get out and play as I did this past Saturday with Buddy at Birdsboro.

Since climbing and leading on ice this winter, Buddy and I have come to the obvious conclusion that more practice is needed. The better we’re at climbing, rope handling and understanding each other when it comes to climbing, the safer we’ll be.

Fortunately Birdsboro is nearly around the corner and offers lots of easy opportunity to hone our skills.

I have to admit, I was a bit rusty and shaky considering this was only my second time ever leading on rock and I haven’t climbed much in the last couple of years.

Hopefully with more frequent outings that will improve.

Here’s a shot of a route I did not lead, but had to top-rope and clean. Looks a lot more formidable than it is.

Considering it’s early spring and I’m pretty anxious to try my new winter glove setup, I brought them along and used them for belaying.

Not for any rope burn concerns, but mostly to break them in and see how they worked with the equipment. They weren’t too bad, but I do wish the fingers were slightly shorter for improved dexterity.

– b