Folks, it is a miserable day here in Tallahassee. The sunshine is nowhere to be found, the air is tepid and raindrops are threatening to assault the ground at any moment. It’s days like this that I find myself daydreaming of the mountains, lakes and climbing. Today’s photos aim to give you a peek into the images floating around in my head. In less than two weeks, Niko and I will be setting out on our return trip to Little Rock City and Rocktown, both located in Tennessee. Until then, my mind shall be consumed by thoughts of:
Escaping back to Tennessee.
I miss waking up in Chester Frost Campground to the sound of rustling climbers making instant oatmeal and loading up cars with crash pads and gear. I miss sitting on the docks of Campsite #303, watching the fog dissipate as the sun warms the air.
Getting back into nature.
My Communications Geography course is discussing the idea of ‘opting out’ this week, which deals with notions of disconnecting from technology and attempting to live ‘off the grid.’ I can relate this concept to climbing trips, where we abandon the conveniences of modern technology in favor of embracing the simplicity of the outdoors. It is such a beautiful way to refresh your perspective.
Bloody fingertips and chalky palms.
This may sound unusual to a non-climber – This morning, I came across this photo taken by my friend Raychel and felt my hands start to anxiously sweat at the sight of this self-inflicted carnage. The battle wounds one acquires while climbing are almost as gratifying as sending the problem; it’s a sign that you fought to the best of your abilities – your blood is a badge of honor.
I am very impatiently biding my time until the semester ends and winter break begins. I’ve got a weeks worth of papers, articles, projects and exams to tackle, so these photos will keep me truckin’ onwards until it is finally time to break free. It is going to feel absolutely amazing to escape back into the wild.
For this upcoming trip, Niko and I are doing things properly. No cramped cars, no ill-planned meals – it’s going to be perfect. Just me and him driving up in my car, packing delicious food like avocados with garlic naan, sleeping in my cozy hatchback. Hopefully Steve and McGoo will be able to join us for one final southeast trip before they move to Colorado, and maybe we’ll be able to meet up with other climbers — any takers?
THE MORNING FRESH 
How is Sender doing?
Sender is doing great! She is staying in Tampa during her treatment, and has already gone through the first round. The vets say she is doing wonderfully. :)
Hmmmmmmm beautiful photos. And couldn’t agree more, the feeling of being connected to nature and not the internet is far more fulfilling. Are you heading out as soon as the semester ends? I’d love to join… only need to get my hands on a camera… still upset that I let mine get poured on by rain.
Your camera story still makes my heart ache, haha. I believe we are in the works to plan a trip sometime during the week right after finals, but I’m not sure where yet. We were heading to LRC/Rocktown, but the forecast had a high of 30 and a low of 17, so that might not work out so well. I’ll keep you updated!