Just another pretty face. Keri onsighting some 5.11 high on Super Mini Wall
We’re linking pitches to cover ground quickly. The sun is strong now; we need to get to the pool as soon as possible. I climb 200′ to Andrew, pause for a moment, and shoot off again, covering 400 vertical feet in a few hot minutes. The black rubber of my shoes is scorching in the sun. Behind mirrored glasses sweat drips into my eyes.
(Click the photo above, or here for some recent photos)
Today is a blessing. Yesterday, I twisted my ankle and fell into assorted sharp plants. A 1/4″ thorn penetrated my thumb, and threatened to push through my fingernail from underneath. Now my ankle is swollen, but fine, and the climbing is a little slower but good.
We simul-rappel with hands burning on the thin rope, chase shade on the 5 minute walk back to camp, and scream into the pool. Life is good, no, GREAT! Cooking quesadillas with fresh peppers, sore muscles, never a clock or a hurry.
Our time here is nearing an end, and thoughts from our normal lives are creeping into our consciousness. Work/Money, family and friend commitments, etc. I’m looking forward to my return, and I know everything will work out, no need to worry. Talk to you soon, friend.
E
Beautiful photos, Eli. When do you return to the US? I’ve loved reading your posts during your trip!
Hey Mom- We’re flying back on Wednesday 3/3
Hey Eli, thanks for all the great EPC posts. I’m thoroughly jealous that you’ve had a February of amazing climbing. We’ve talked before about how even a day or two per month of getting outside on rock can keep you motivated and reconnect you with the “real world” of climbing. You’ve taken this trip at the perfect time because we’ve finally hit that inevitable stretch of weather that hasn’t allowed for even a few hours of bouldering in Flagstaff. Maybe you’ll bring the nice weather back with you. I’m looking forward to catching up when you’re back. Is Andrew planning on doing some Boulder couch surfing or is he heading back to the plains?
Glad you’re liking them Adam. Andrew is flying into Omaha, he’ll drive out to Boulder about a week later. See you soon.