Wednesday, July 25, 2012

A lot like cake...

Do you have a favorite type of cake?

Imagine a large piece of your favorite cake set out in front of you.

The desire to put that piece of cake in your mouth is how I feel about putting my fingers into a parallel sided crack. The word is splitter.

This is why I climb.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Cascadia

In the past couple months I have become terribly addicted to exploring the Cascade Mountains of Washington. The mountains are dramatic, and the climbing is in your face. After another weekend in the shadow of Mt. Index, I can't wait to go back for more of the seemingly masochistic experience of struggling against gravity and granite. From Princely Ambitions (5.9) to Japanese Gardens (5.11c) there are no easy ways up. Everything seems so wild, steep, and painful. The adventures outside Leavenworth have been grand in a very different way. Approaching the climbs has been as frustrating as it is beautiful. The Cascades continue to excite my imagination and promise endless exploration.

Testing every crack climbing technique and finishing
with a wild overhang
The Warrior (5.10+) is a striking line tucked high
above Icicle Creek in Washington


























Things are building towards a summer that I have dreamed of for a long time. After flirting with the idea of coming out of retirement, I decided to take another tour of the west, and continue my nomadic lifestyle. The standards have been set high for good company, food, and SUMMIT PARTIES. Next on the list is  Squamish, British Columbia, where I have anticipated climbing the Chief for years. I can't wait to see what will unfold...


live close.

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

live free. live close.

What do soccer moms, rock climbers, and Chuck Norris all have in common?

It is not world class martial arts skills, these are people that all demand a lot from their pants. Pants that allow dynamic movement, without embarrassing rips or tears.

Dear reader, my quest for the ultimate climbing pant was often frustrating, but I did not give up until I found apparel with equal parts fashion, durability, and mobility.

In my darkest moment, I was struck with inspiration like a roundhouse kick to my head. An old advertisement from Black Belt Magazine for "Action Jeans" contained the answer to my prayers. The advertisement claims they won't bind your legs because of the gusseted crotch and spandex content of the fabric. This led me into unexpected terrain. The prize of my quest was not located in a locking glass case, but amidst a sea of denim in the women's clothing section of my local thrift store. Noted for the generous fit, modest waist line, and stretch denim, the pants that do it all, are in fact, "Mom Jeans".

Mom Jeans are nearly identical to Action Jeans in all but their application. Skateboarders, break dancers, and all the other movers and shakers need not suffer any longer. The only pant that can meet the demands of your active lifestyle is waiting for you. Put your ego aside, dare to try on women's pants, and find freedom like you have never known.
Can you do this in your pants?