Ouray, Colorado and Philadelphia are worlds apart, that's for sure...I've been back in town for 10 days now, seems like it's been much longer. Trying my best to keep things balanced and in order, which is never easy after returning from a trip to the mountains. This trip was a bit different than the past few I've taken...not as overwhelming as Alaska or as harsh as Quebec. Low key and lots of fun, climbing routes I never dreamed I'd approach when I first started climbing in Ouray a few years ago (although it's a lot easier to climb a bunch of hard routes when you're not on the sharp end). Coming to grips with what it means to be a "climber", at least for me. I realize there are things I'm likely never to do on my own, big bold leads in far off places I'll never see. I've been fortunate enough to spend some time with men who leave little doubt that they are indeed climbers. They are bold and strong and worthy of far more admiration than any "athlete" you'll see on Sportscenter. More importantly, though, they are men, just like me. They struggle with love and loss, they stand firm in their beliefs and convictions, they work very hard to be good husbands, fathers, sons and friends. They are good men...I'm grateful for the time I've spent with them.
