On Monday morning, Aika, Barry, and I woke up to wet weather. We drove out to Clear Creek, hoping it was just a localized morning front. Unfortunately, it was raining there too! We hiked up to Little Eiger, searching for dry rock.
Our plans to climb did not materialize, and I told my visiting friends that they were lucky to have 2 out of 3 days of solid weather. I was sad for them, and selfishly, for myself. Geez, it was *my* birthday!!! It being a prime year (31), I wanted to start the year off in a special way…
…SO…
Trying to keep spirits high, we decided a day in Boulder would cheer us up. We gave Jim a call, and he was game for a birthday hike. While we hiked, Barry took Aika downtown so she could complete some last minute vacation shopping.
We drove to the NCAR (National Center for Atmosperic Research) Facility, at the base of the Flatirons. Jim & I were quick to wish each other happy birthday (seperated by a few years). We then set off down the trail. Here are some pictures of our hike up to Mallory Cave:
At 9:15am:
At 9:30am:
At 9:45am:
At 10:00am:
Der Zerkle Climbing area:
At 10:15am:
At 10:20am:
After our hike, Jim & I drove down to Boulder, and met Barry & Aika at a pasta joint. We had a marvelous birthday lunch, followed by a birthday coffee. The sky had brightened up, and the clouds were long gone. Yippee!
I took Barry & Aika back to the house so they could grab their things. Then off to DIA for their departure. I was truly sad to see them go. But, Dennis had plans for my birthday evening, so at least the day would end on a high note!
Tags: Birthday, Flatirons, Hike, Mallory Cave, NCAR