The Hazard Chronicles

It's official- summer is here. At least, in my book. I think Memorial Day is as good a marker as any, and this weekend certainly felt like it. The weather was beautiful and we all got out to play a little. 

We all went up to Craiglandia (Tum Tum) for part of the weekend. We camped and hiked and climbed and just hung out together (get it- hung out? Climbing? Ha!)

Josh came with us and climbed for the first time. I've been doing it so long that I have to remind myself how nerve-wracking it can be to trust ropes and gear and small holds and heights. He did great!

Ev was a good teacher

Most people see hammocks as these relaxing things. Like, almost a symbol of serenity and pleasure. I don't think anyone in our family will ever be able to do that. Hammocks are these terrifying torture chambers that, if you close your eyes or let your guard down for even a second, are employed to inflict as much physical and emotional damage as possible. How did it get this way? I really don't know. But they cannot be trusted, this is for sure. 

You know what else can't be trusted? Older siblings. Rach and I were sitting at camp, winding down our day, when we heard a whiny little yelp from far off. After a minute we heard it again and went to investigate. This is what we found. She was completely alone and unable to get herself down.

The next morning, Rach and I got up early for a little multi-pitch adventure. It was a great morning. Great company with my favorite partner. Great weather. Great rock. And I flashed the 5.12 friction slab I had my eye on. Wooo!

These two did some climbing on their own. It's neat that they are able to just go and explore like this. Also, what better place to do it than Craiglandia? This place has the feel of a resort. Mowed grass, fire rings, picnic tables, gazebos, benches or even couches at the belay spots, well marked climbs, with the grade printed right at the base, intelligent bolting, and quicklinks at the top of everything. I mean, seriously. This is what pampered climbing looks like.

It has almost become tradition to eat at the Flying Goat Tavern on our way home.

Just a few other things from the week: This is from the first of many barbecues in our yard with friends. It really did feel like summer. We had backyard music going, heated ping-pong matches, a campfire, and s'mores for dessert.

Addy went to Silverwood again. It helps to have a friend who works there.

Evelyn and Addy played in a school concert. 

It's easy to get photos of Ev because as a percussionist she is nearly always standing up, and walks around to various parts of the stage throughout the performance.

Here's the best we could get from Addy. She tried out for the elite school band and got in for next year. Of course.