I just got back from the most amazing 2-day vacation ever. Words really can’t do it justice. Two days were spent climbing in an amazing area with 10 other amazing people. I had never been to the Black Hills of South Dakota, and now I can’t imagine experiencing it any other way. We stayed in the small tourist town, Custer, SD. They had camping, motels, candy shops, and outstanding pie. The sights were breathtaking; the weather was gorgeous; and the experience will never be forgotten.

The routes chosen were perfect. They were not difficult, but they were not easy (except for Polly, a 5.2/5.5 multi-pitch). They allowed us to climb and enjoy ourselves, and at the same time, work on outdoor technique and endurance. In the gym, I push myself harder and harder to get to the next rating; whereas, my girlfriend climbs simply for the sake of climbing. I never understood how that was possible; it doesn’t make sense to me. How could you climb and not care about progressing? After seeing these sights, I now understand what she’s talking about. It’s about experiencing the moment, with the people you’re with, at that point in time. It’s not about competition and “beating” the other climbers or myself.

I learned a lot about safety and setting anchors, and there’s still much more to learn. I don’t know when it’s going to happen, but I’m already looking forward to my next climbing vacation.

Thanks to Steve, Cecilia, and everyone else that made this trip possible, especially my girlfriend Anh for introducing me to the group.

Without further ado, I give you, photo-bomb!



Don’t Miss Your Chance

I was stuck in Corporate America for 9 years. I was miserable.

Then I took control.

You can too, and it starts right here.