In 2019, I walked into a climbing gym for the first time. I watched the chalk float through the air up around large, colorful walls and saw climbers who felt the same thing I did: an urge to be constantly challenged. 

Stories about climbers, mountaineers, survivors, and explorers inspired me as I learned to climb, especially when I felt limited by my abilities. Over time my interest in it became so much more nuanced beyond being challenged, I was seeing rocks in a new way and finding more confidence in myself. And the confidence wasn’t just in climbing, it spread out into my life.

There is no better way to learn than through stories—it’s always been the best way for me to remember things—because they have hidden lessons that teach safety, geology, history, bravery, perseverance, and explore the spirituality and art of climbing. The more I learn about climbing, the more depth I feel in my life and I want to share that feeling with anyone interested in, and especially anyone struggling to climb.

For me, the memories I’ve made and will make at my local crag are the most important part of climbing. I can’t wait to sweat, laugh, take home a few bruises, and crash in my bed so I can wake up tomorrow and do it all again.

Limestone! Both for climbing and the cool caves 🦇