https://www.mountainproject.com/area/116496885/granite-gardens
A year ago I was here climbing for my first time in the gardens. Learning the basics of setting an anchor, rappelling, experiencing a new type of joy.
Since then ive been back a few times. Sometimes granite gardens holds a glow of colors in yellow, red, and orange. Other days, like today; a brisk wind, brown leaves, mute rock. Only two climbers out for an entire crag. Taking photos doesn't feel as exciting since ive been here before. Since the excitement has burned off.
And now I am the one teaching anchors, mapping the routes, with all the confidence in the world to climb any inch of the corndog wall.
What excites me? What doesn't?
An urge to explore something new!
A recognition of progress and a realization of being a changed person in the same spot only a year later. So much has happened in a year. To think about how naive I was when I began my journey into climbing ..is scary! Im pretty timid in the face of danger and so i trust my younger self and my older self but there are always off chances and once in a lifetimes..
Once again, a momentary recognition of time and change has caused me pause to consider my path and the reasons why i chose and choose whatever im building. Whatever this is that im working towards..
Because honestly, i dont really know. And maybe thats what i like about it. The excitement of something new and no prediction of the future.