Rock Climbing

My daredevil 13-year-old nephew just LOVES stuff like this. I made him research all of the details, and he found the largest rock climbing gym in Arizona five miles from my house... AZ on the Rocks... fabulous facility, reasonable prices. Yes, that's really me hanging upside down!


My nephew was too young to belay me, so I had to use the auto device. I was climbing away really well, but then freaked out a bit when I thought about going down. Hard to let go when you don't know what to expect. Even my nephew thought it was a bit scary and only did it once. This was as high as I got, but not bad for a first attempt. Next time we'll go with hubby... I'll feel MUCH more secure with him as my anchor.

The tightrope was a little closer to the ground, which suited me just fine. Very good arm workout trying to keep your balance. I made it almost all the way to the end. Of course, the nephew made it to the end and back again! He's awesome.

We spent most of the time "bouldering" which is free-climbing walls more like 15' high. I was able to get myself up pretty well, but couldn't support myself on one hand to reach the next hold. My goal for the next time is to at least move one hand, but hopefully both hands and both feet. Sweetie boy is very encouraging and is helping me towards my goal! :o) Looking forward to next time!