The big fun was just climbing with Mr Mud. Haven't gotten too many days down there with him this season. Felt like two old war-horses up to it again. Between the two of us there are dam few climbs in the whole of the Monument that we haven't done (and almost none that we haven't at least been on). Nice too to get Ethical Divide. Small climb, but it ended my season with one more tick, bringing my route count at Pinns to a nice, even, 775. Gunning for over 800 by the end of next season.
Anyone reading this knows that Mr Mud is one of my best friends on the planet. So forgive me one story, typical of him. This is almost perfectly verbatum:
Mr Mud, while leading No Raps, No Hooks, etc, before the first bolt, knowing from the guidebook that the route is rated 5.10b: "This thing is rated pretty conservatively."
Brad, in response: "Not to break your heart, but Jack originally rated it 5.9+."
Mr Mud, in response: "Yeah, well that's 5.9+ for you."
Mr Mud again, after finishing his lead, as Brad, now following, pulls onto the summit block: "Two stars for sure, but it's only 5.10a."
Gotta love total consistancy, year in and year out. Thanks again for an excellent day.
