Mike, Andy and I climbed the Flatironette in Boulder, CO on Sunday. We had gorgeous weather and it was a super mellow day. It was totally fun hanging out with both of them! I couldn’t wait to meet our Basic Rock School students and take them to this crag. It’s perfect for new climbers.
The Colorado Mountain Club, Boulder Group offers a Basic Rock School every spring and fall. It is one of the major training opportunities for folks who want to learn how to climb. I assisted with it in the fall and it was generally a pleasurable experience. I really enjoy teaching people how to climb!
Prior to the start of class and field trips, we have a session outside. All the instructors and assistants can spend the day reviewing the techniques, communication tips, and familiarizing each other with potential risks of teaching. It’s a wonderful day and I’d say the most valuable experience for an assistant instructor, as you learn the preferred methods of your senior instructor.
This Spring, I was paired up with Mike and Andy. Boy was I excited, these two guys are loads of laughs but at the same time totally serious about the art and science of climbing!
In the month of March, I led two fantastic trail runs for the Colorado Mountain Club. Trail running trips were a totally new option for the CMC Boulder Group! I had to write guidelines and get them approved before I could take victims (I mean participants!) out on the trails.
March 3, 2012 Wayne, Susan, Dough (back row), Clare and Daniel in front row. Great day for a run!
The first run was on the South Mesa Trail at the base of the flatirons, just south of Boulder, CO. We had a small but intrepid group. The wind was fierce, but we all still had a great time.
March 17, 2012 Dan & Joan, Dennis & Clare, and Doug about to have a great run!
The second run was up the Doudy Draw, at the mouth of Eldorado Canyon. I really like the Doudy Draw trail because it starts out steep, but as you climb up the draw, the views open up and the way back is a scream!
We had a nice relaxing weekend in Breckenridge. Everybody but me braved the slushy spring conditions out on the slopes. I decided to hang out with the dogs and catch up on my sleep and my blog articles for Peru.
Shasta
Odie & Jersey
At night, we all got hooked on the Japanese Ninja Warrior show and ate about 20 pounds of M&Ms. There were also some very heated debates going on in the hot tub…of which Crystal, Alana, and myself purposely ducked out of. I made a really kickin Chili and Justin’s food was just as hearty! We all had a fun time up in the mountains.
Farewell to Justin, may this weekend be a reminder of all the good things in Colorado! Warm cozy spa after boarding followed by a healthy dose of beer and chocolate…We’ll miss you guys when you go to Ohio!