Rocky Butte, 2/21/10 (and other stuff)

The plan was to ski Saturday at Meadows, but crappy snow conditions prompted us to change directions and stay at lower elevations.

Since I was in town, I attended a memorial service for Justin Bowman, the 25-year-old son of family friends John and Darla. He suffered a heart attack last week. Justin's sister, Karen, was in the Tigard High School Marching Band, and his parents worked with my family in the pit crew.

Justin and Karen

I didn't know Justin personally, but the huge crowd that gathered Saturday to celebrate and remember was testament to a life well lived, even if for a short time.

After the service, Brad and I went for a fast, intense hike at Tryon Creek State Park. Since winter snow is eluding us, we're moving on and getting ready for climbing season! It was a beautiful day in the woods.

Because it was still dry Sunday, Jacob joined us for some rock climbing at Portland's Rocky Butte. Below the road, an old stone retaining wall makes a perfect spot to practice your skills. We parked right above, and Brad used the car to create a top rope anchor. We spent the next few hours going up and down the short wall. I can't believe we all forgot our cameras. It would have been the perfect spot to capture some action shots. Oh well.

Jacob, donning his brand-new rock shoes, learned the real value of those funny feet accessories. He also worked to perfect his belaying skills so he'll be ready for future outings.

I somehow overcame something inside myself and let go of a lot of fear. I stopped doubting and thinking about being scared. Instead, I trusted my shoes (which is very important!) and "zoomed" to the top. It helped tremendously that my climbing partners were super supportive and cheered me on the whole way. They are great guys! I also practiced using an auto-locking Cinch delay device that will be helpful and comforting when I belay Brad's leader climbs.
Our route was too easy for Brad, but he still enjoyed being out and showing us anchors and fixed-line skills and prussic knots. He loves to share his passions with friends and watch them get addicted, too! We ended the day with Taco del Mar fish tacos and combo plates, apparently a new post-adventure ritual.

Now we're ready for Smith!!! Hopefully we'll get some good weather soon :)