Climb Every Mountain

Well . . . ok . . .maybe that's a little ambitious for the moment, but this is a start.

I've recently taken up climbing, thanks to a super introduction to it from my very good friends. After an introductory course and a few sessions at the local climbing centre I'm hooked. I hate exercising for the sake of it, so doing something physical without realising it is far more enjoyable - and here, if the physical exertions don't get my heart rate up, the heights certainly do!!

I do find climbing a little scary, but surely that's half the challenge? I would certainly say that where fitness comes in, I am a little guilty of not pushing myself so this time I'm determined to stretch myself and try to become better every time. I've already met some really nice people though and some friendly encouragement and a slight competitive edge are already starting to have positive effects.

These are my new rock shoes and I already love them. I've tried them out for the first time today and they provide reassuring stickiness to my novice feet. I get the impression that climbers have to develop a good relationship with their shoes. Hopefully if I look after them, they'll look after me.

It's the beginning of a beautiful friendship . . . .