The Sharp End

 
This sequence captures me taking a ride at a secret purple cave in the Cascades. I fell on this part over and over again. After an hour, I had to admit defeat. Watched Steven climb it like a fly, sticking to the wall, and decided to give it another try. The last few moves took every last bit of power. An exercise in redefining my limits.

Clear Cut (5.11c?) follows a striking line across the rock. The climbing, all along the wall, is improbable and gymnastic. I will be back...

Sometimes I imagine that I have things in order. Finding contentment in the notion that things are tight and safe. It seems that even when I believe I am in control, the truth is, I couldn't be more vulnerable. It could all fall apart no matter how good at planning I am. It took some practice, but being transient and honest about my lack of security and control, has carried me to some amazing places.

My last few days have been the type that capture the spirit of going with the flow. Climbing in the wild and vast valley of Yosemite was just the beginning. The company at the historic walk-in campground, Camp 4, proved to be a great smattering of fun, musical, inspired, and interesting people. I arrived with my bag of clothes, climbing gear, and food and few expectations. Being open to the opportunities of the week brought me to great experiences and back to San Francisco. What's next?

200ft rope swing at the base of El Capitan. Why not?

Worth noting was the largest swing I have ridden (and I have been on some pretty baller swings), watching Half Dome glowing in red sunset, and tramping through the Cathedral Canyon descent after climbing the East Buttress of Middle Cathedral.

Live Close.

Going Back to Cali

I have been in San Diego for a week today. Yesterday, I was riding in my friends car, listening to Norious BIG rap about going back to Cali, and I was filled with gratitude and love.

I have had a great time here, but it took a bit to realize what San Diego is all about. The landscape did not immediately endear me to the city. I do not love the desert, climate, but the Pacific is always there, reminding me with her cool breeze. Walking along the beach, or out knocking around the city at night, I have encountered some interesting characters. Just watching the interactions and the costumes entertains me for hours. Somewhere between afterwork (Erik's work, that it) bouldering in Santee and an early morning surf at "The Bone Yard", I came around to the idea that San Diego is an amazing place (to visit).

Next, I am off to Yosemite. By the end of the week I will be back in one of my favorite places in the world. Yosemite Valley has a feeling of majesty like nowhere else. The shape and scale makes climbing in Yosemite feel like a religious experience. My goal is to climb fun routes, recharge my qi lying in the shadow of El Capitan, and make the most of what may be my last adventure in California for some time.

I have a lot of anticipation about the coming months. I have a place to live in downtown Seattle for July and August, at which point, I could depart for any number of cities depending on what, if any, teaching jobs I am offered. I may also end up staying and studying teaching in Seattle. I look forward to seeing what is revealed, and to sharing all that happens on this crazy ride.

Until later...
Calvino