DAY 64

DAY 64
06.07.07
TREE 70

How do I begin? First, I would just like to state that I am happy I am alive. And once I get past how scary that climb was, it was awesome and fun as hell! I chose a tree along the paved path right behind the retreat center. At first I passed it off as unclimbable due to the unreachable first branch, unshimmiable trunk, and no overhanging limbs to monkey in. But on closer inspection the subtle climbing elements presented themselves: a knot and remnants of a broken, dead branch. Up on the first try I almost went back to the ground because of a spider on my hand. But I let go, shook it and swung back to my grip. From here, a little muscle and I was in the branches. Up I went, weary of spiders. I chose the easiest path up which forked. I got up to what I thought would be my highest point and tagged it. But in my pause, I looked around and found a path on the other, taller tine of the fork. So without a second thought I went, climbing higher. The branches were good, but as I got higher and they got smaller they looked unhealthy, possibly damaged. But I continued judging them safe. Up, up, up. I had an amazing view out. I tied another ribbon planning to return to my first spot and remove the other one. And then the gust hit. And that was just the first one. It being a pretty windy day, these strong blasts became more frequent and tossed me. All the branches and leaves around me came alive and shook and swayed. I would generally love this, however, I was bending so much I doubted the integrity of the limb I was on, and I got scared. I tried to calm and enjoy the ride but I envisioned death by a huge fall. So at the first windbreak I began a quick descent, skipping my planto remove the other ribbon. Once on the ground I ran, pumped full of adrenaline, totally excited about the climb, and that, once again, I cheated death.

6-8-08:  A day late and a dollar short.  No, I just missed this entry because I stayed at Matt’s Friday night, partied at the McChesney’s all day Saturday, then spent that night at Norman’s. 

The climb above was awesome… but wait to you guys see what happened on the re-climb.  (total teaser… be sure to check back in 3 months!!)

My poison ivy is awful.  It is itchy and spreading, but I feel I am doing a good job not scratching.  I am also giving the natural treatment that Rachel recommended a try.  Calendula cream with tumeric mixed in.  Yes, the spice.  I am also taking Quercitin orally.  I don’t even know what that is. 

So with my state of itch, I went to Cherokee Park on Friday looking for an easy tree.  I parked at Dog Hill and found a nice oak.  The limbs were great for a quick and easy climb.  At least once I got into the tree.  The beginning took some monkeying which aggravated my spots big time.  Here is a picture and a video: