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Monica and Rick were with us during the Jim's Grove shortcut part of our trek to the Boulderfield. Mike and Staci decided not to take the shortcut. We all arrived at where the shortcut ends at the same time, less distance, but no savings in time because of our packs and the steep trail. Here's Lora near that spot.
The next morning we got up and readied ourselves for the trek to the summit of Longs. Allen was slow to arrive as he didn't leave the trailhead until 4 a.m. I suggested that we'd better wait but Lora kept saying that he walks slow and duck-like and that it could be noon or later so we ought to go on without him. To stall for time I took pictures including this one of Lora enjoying the alpenglow on Longs.
Allen got there just before Lora said she wasn't going to wait a second longer. I was with Rick and Monica but Ed, Lora, and Allen weren't far behind. Here they are on the Ledges. Lora is taking a picture. Allen is praying for a swift and merciful death.
Seriously, Allen has a fear of heights as many people do, and this hike was the bravest thing he has ever done except for telling Lora she couldn't spend more money on hiking gear. Courage isn't the absence of fear. Courage is going forward in spite of your fears. Allen is a very courageous guy.
On the Narrows we came across a couple of turds and a white sock with a brown stain which was obviously used for wiping. Why the pooper didn't flick it off the trail I don't know. What I do know is that no dogs or bears venture out onto the Narrows. This was obviously human. And Allen, bless his heart, stepped in it. He stepped in HUMAN. Have you ever mowed the lawn and stepped in dog poo without knowing it, but the smell follows you until you finally check the bottom of your shoe? That's what happened to Allen on the Narrows. He noticed that his boot had lost traction, and that Ed was keeping his distance. Once discovered he wiped it on a rock. Someone's handhold. Here they are making their way across the Narrows.
Lora got her nickname in college when her roommate was also named Lora. Hector seemed like a good way to tell them apart. Strider named himself after the Lord of the Rings character who became king and got a hot elf chick. Here they are ascending with Ed.
Finally the Homestretch. Lora is near the summit.
Allen as he walks onto the summit of Longs Peak.
My amazing friends!
The Bierbaums ROCK!
Edited by John, 01 September 2010 - 01:41 PM.
