Trip Report
Half Dome with my daughter
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Thursday July 14, 2011 6:18pm
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Trip Report Views: 26,062 |
Jim Herson
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About the Author
Jim Herson is a climber from Emerald Hills, CA. |
Comments
Paul_M.
climber
Heaven
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:27pm PT
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All I can say is .................OMG !!
Thanks for that TR !!
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:54pm PT
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As someone with a daughter I have to say this is so saturated in love and good parenting I almost can't stand it. Way to go Dad! Just an amazing experience to have been able to share with her. And what a beauty - good thing she'll be more than capable of dealing with the boys. If anything she's going to have a hard time finding boys who aren't intimidated. Hang on to your hat though dude, teen years will make HD look like a sport climb even with good girls.
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:28pm PT
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Some 12 yr. old! Some dad! Great tr.
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jewedlaw
Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:29pm PT
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Damn! Puts me to shame....
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TwistedCrank
climber
Released into general population, Idaho
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:33pm PT
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Staggering coolness factor.
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Brian
climber
California
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:38pm PT
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So cool. Thanks.
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le_bruce
climber
Oakland, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:42pm PT
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Bookmarked it. Wasn't enough. Printed it out. Wasn't enough. Framed it and hung on wall. Still not worthy enough praise for your TR. It's now being tattooed on my abdomen with images included.
Seriously, as the dad of a 2 yr old daughter, you've thrown stars into my eyes and given me big, wild dreams.
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Seamstress
Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:44pm PT
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I approve of your parenting style. She'll be able to tackle whatever life throws at her!
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Mike Bolte
Trad climber
Planet Earth
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:47pm PT
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this is so amazing and cool!
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nita
Social climber
chica de chico, I don't claim to be a daisy.
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:34pm PT
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Kara, WOW.....way to go!!..... I'm impressed..
ps..Love your smile..(-;
Jim, wish i could turn back the clock.. and have a Dad like you...wow..very cool.
Cheers....
edit..... nopales & bean tacos...yum.....
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Brandon-
climber
The Granite State.
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:54pm PT
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Dude! Wow.
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adam d
climber
CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 06:55pm PT
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Awesome! Kara's big grin is priceless...
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orsemaj
Gym climber
SD
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:02pm PT
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Fantastic!
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Captain...or Skully
climber
Boise, ID
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:48pm PT
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Words cannot express how cool this is. Fricken Badass youngun.
Handy to have a trained rope gun around. WOOT!
TFPU!!!
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RKM
Social climber
Utah
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:10pm PT
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This was the best thing (and one of the few things) I have read on Supertopo for over a year. Adventure, excitement, learning new things, being with those you enjoy and best of all - climbing.
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Ezra Ellis
Trad climber
North wet, and Da souf
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:18pm PT
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Wow, way to go!!!! TFPU!
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Kurt Ettinger
Trad climber
Martinez, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:24pm PT
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Now THAT is what its all about!
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GDavis
Social climber
SOL CAL
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:27pm PT
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Two days ago I finished the Regular Route on Half Dome with a partner only after training my ass off for 2 months and getting into the best shape of my life. It was the hardest climb of my career. And I'm 26.
Damn, bro.
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Brian Biega
climber
Truckee, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:27pm PT
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Great report and shots. Way to go!
Cheers, Brian
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DonC
climber
Bishop and Redlands
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:28pm PT
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The best trip report I've ever read.
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murcy
Gym climber
sanfrancisco
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:38pm PT
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Kara for President!!!
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Footloose
Trad climber
Lake Tahoe
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Jul 14, 2011 - 07:59pm PT
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Fantastic.
I nominate you for Parent of the Year.
I nominate Kara for Young Adventure Sport Explorer of the Year.
Truly inspiring all the way around.
In this TR there is proof the species still has it: the right stuff.
TFPU.
EDIT to ADD
You should think about adding your TR to this site.
Oh, and seconding Murcy's nomination, too.
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tahoe523
Trad climber
Station Wagon, USA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 10:10pm PT
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World's greatest dad and world's most awesome daughter! I think I was still riding bikes, drinking Yoo-Hoo and playing with legos at her age, which I still sort of do today. She has managed to impress a few thousand grown ups on the internet. Like she cares. She's 12!
I feel bad for your neighbors. Keeping up with the Hersons must be a toilsome endeavor.
Thanks for sharing. Best TR ever!
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Kurt Ettinger
Trad climber
Martinez, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:01pm PT
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One question Jim. How did you (her,wife) decide she was ready?
Just thinking ahead to my son and daughter (3 and 5 yrs) who are still a few years out yet!
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Gal
Trad climber
going big air to fakie
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:02pm PT
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Best TR ever... sometimes I wasn't sure it was real... but of course it was, absolutely amazing. Your daughter is adorable and motivated with joy for climbing!
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:06pm PT
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i want to see the purity ball tr
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Reilly
Mountain climber
The Other Monrovia- CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:11pm PT
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Anybody want to buy some gear?
No point in using it any more if 12 year old girls can climb Half Dome!
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Levy
Big Wall climber
Calabasas
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:14pm PT
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Jim, thanks for sharing that! I am stoked for the two of you. What a great experience for the two of you to share. Kara rocks! I love the shot of her leading the bolt ladder.
edit* I think the shot of her holding the burrito is the best one. Love the view of Snow Creek in the background!
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Melissa
Gym climber
berkeley, ca
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:18pm PT
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Incredible work, Kara! Nice story telling, Jim!
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Apolobamba
Trad climber
Boise, ID
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:22pm PT
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Wow!!!! Go Kara!!!!!!!!!
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O.D.
Trad climber
LA LA Land
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:24pm PT
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Wow! Coolest TR ever! What more can one say?
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dirt claud
Social climber
san diego,ca
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:26pm PT
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Man, what a killer TR, very awesome, glad you guys had a great time.
that poop tube design was halarious
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Norton
climber
The Wastelands
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:43pm PT
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That picture of her crossing Thank God Ledge was awesome!
Way to go girl!
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Tung Gwok
Mountain climber
South Bend, Indiana
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Jul 14, 2011 - 08:44pm PT
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Truly amazing.
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GoMZ
Trad climber
Pioneer, Ca
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:01pm PT
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SO SWEET!!! :-)
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waulrat
Big Wall climber
Santa Rosa, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:04pm PT
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coolest TR I have ever seen! way to go!
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happiegrrrl
Trad climber
www.climbaddictdesigns.com
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:07pm PT
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Man - I wish I had had a dad like you! Way to go.
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Reggaemylitis
Trad climber
South Lake Tahoe, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:08pm PT
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LMAO at the best poop tube ever and the TGL discussion! Best trip report ever for sure! Proud all around! Proud send, proud dad, and proud daughter!
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davidji
Social climber
CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:09pm PT
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Wow, thanks for sharing!
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Lennox
climber
in the land of the blind
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:16pm PT
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A most excellent TR!
Go Kara!
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guido
Trad climber
Santa Cruz/New Zealand/South Pacific
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:20pm PT
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TR of the year!
Awesome, love the beautiful smiles.
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PAUL SOUZA
Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:39pm PT
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I've never seen a kid with a bigger smile than hers! Awesome!
She will be the next Lynn Hill for sure!
Congrats!
P.S. Was this the youngest ascent??
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Mark Hudon
Trad climber
On the road.
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:38pm PT
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This is unbelievably cool!
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jfailing
Trad climber
PDX
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:41pm PT
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This is so rad! Good on ya!
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Zander
climber
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:51pm PT
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Ha ha ha ha!, Awesome!!
Zander
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drljefe
climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:53pm PT
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Awesome!
Your daughter looks like an "old soul". So, chances are, she climbed all those routes in a past life!
Congrats to her nonetheless!
Great job, great photos, great tr!
Thanks for posting,
Super inspiring!
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Tony Puppo
climber
Bishop
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:51pm PT
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Beautiful, TR, family and tribute to Jeff.
Thanks
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frog-e
Trad climber
Imperial Beach California
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Jul 14, 2011 - 09:51pm PT
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Totally awesome!!
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PAUL SOUZA
Trad climber
Central Valley, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 10:04pm PT
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So what's next for her?
The Nose?? Looks like she's already gotten a little King swing training! ;)
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nutjob
Sport climber
Almost to Hollywood, Baby!
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Jul 14, 2011 - 10:23pm PT
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DUUUUUUDE!
I can't really expand on what's already been said here.
I am curious about the training process from birth, when the roped climbing began, how much does mom climb, etc. Just really amazing and I want to know more!
Edit: I just saw some of your other trip reports, with insight into all of my questions. Unsurpassedly inspiring!
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mctwisted
Trad climber
e.p.
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Jul 14, 2011 - 10:05pm PT
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great job guys, way to go for it!!!
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Dirka
Trad climber
Hustle City
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:08pm PT
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Egads Batman! That was some sick family bonding and some solid Climbing. TFPU!
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Melissa
Gym climber
berkeley, ca
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:12pm PT
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Funny questiong, nutjob. I've met but don't know Jim's family, but I've seen them at the gym for years. As a n00b I'd watch his wife crank like a beast in total awe. At the time, she seemed to climb harder than anyone (male or female) that I saw at the gym.
She was pregnant about the time that I left SF. So Kara is one of the kids that I only cross paths w/ every few years who gives me a shock of "My how time has passed!" when I see how she's grown and how well she climbs. A few months ago she was tied in next to me at the gym sending my project. :-) Even for the super talented kids, I think it takes hard work to climb hard!
Jim/Anne/Kara...I hope you don't mind fly-on-the-wall outsider appreciation. It's been inspiring to watch you climb as a family though.
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:17pm PT
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Truly amazing! And Very cool!
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Johno
Big Wall climber
Cape Town / Japan
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:27pm PT
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Absolutely fantastic. Way to go!!
Regards,
Johno
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Rudder
Trad climber
Costa Mesa, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:31pm PT
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Just amazing. 8)
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jahil
Social climber
London, Paris, WV & CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:35pm PT
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Very cool. Climbing with your kids is the best.
steve
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Decko
Trad climber
Colorado
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:39pm PT
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Awesome......
I've been taking my 5 year old for 2 years......
He's super comfortable on a rope, and sits on a ledge 100' off the deck like it was nothing enjoying the views and looking at other climbers in Eldo.....
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sbwyliedog
Trad climber
Santa Barbara, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:41pm PT
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AMAZING! You guys rock!
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BASE104
Social climber
An Oil Field
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:46pm PT
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Yep. Best TR of all time. She rules.
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jtlocal
Trad climber
Joshua Tree
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:53pm PT
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The best trip report ever posted. Inspiring to say the least.
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karodrinker
Trad climber
San Jose, CA
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Jul 14, 2011 - 11:59pm PT
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You two are awesome!! She has a magical smile, and you are remarkably bold for being belayed by a 12 year old! I just did the Rnwf last saturday, it was the biggest hardest thing I've ever climbed. But what an amazing view up there huh?!
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westhegimp
Social climber
granada hills
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:19am PT
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WOW! Amazing. Very motivating. Someday when I grow up I want to climb HD too.
Thanks for this TR
Grandpa Wes :)
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Paulina
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:30am PT
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Wow. Don't even know what to say. Way to go, Kara!
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Matt
Trad climber
it's all turtles, all the way dooowwwwwnn!!!!!
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:50am PT
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nice work jimmy boy!
that kid has come a long long way, and you deserve to be the proud father you are, congrats to both of you!
and btw kids-
if your pop can free the salathe as a weekend warrior with a real job and a kid at home, you too can have the same misspent youth that lil miss kara does!!!
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Jan
Mountain climber
Colorado & Nepal
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:36am PT
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I really enjoyed that!
Thanks!
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Pamneal
Trad climber
Valley Village
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:49am PT
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Wow...as a parent, teacher, and a climber, I am really impressed. Kara has a level of commitment and innate wisdom that is hard to find in young people, in spite of her experiences. I can't wait to see what she does in her lifetime as a climber, and otherwise.
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TwistedCrank
climber
Released into general population, Idaho
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Jul 15, 2011 - 01:15am PT
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The fact that the Steck-Salathe was a warmup is almost more impressive.
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10b4me
Social climber
Lida Junction
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Jul 15, 2011 - 01:30am PT
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that was a great tr
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bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:07am PT
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BEST DAD EVAR!! and your partner seems pretty sw0le for a 'tween. Did she have to drag you up?!
I'm inspired. 2014 here we come!
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Outside the Asylum
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:49am PT
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What fun - thank you! Eyes of wonder.
Does Kara know that there's a sea north of Russia named the Kara Sea?
Does she know about your TR? It would be fun to hear her version, too.
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all in jim
climber
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:50am PT
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Another awesome adventure and brilliantly crafted TR. Thanks Jim!
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KP Ariza
climber
SCC
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:59am PT
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Jim, amazing and super inspiring report. Thanks for sharing. Iv'e got a two month old boy now and can't wait to share the mountains with him. Albeit in a bit more moderate fashion I suspect. Thanks again
KA
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zeta
Trad climber
Portland, OR
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Jul 15, 2011 - 03:30am PT
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very cool
your daughter's smile in those pics is priceless. Thanks for a wonderful and inspiring trip report!
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susu
climber
East Bay, CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:15am PT
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Wow, what an inspiring TR! Just beautiful!
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johntp
Trad climber
Punter, Little Rock
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:53am PT
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Totally Awesome. And I don't use that lightly. There is some serious father-daughter mojo going on here.
She rocks, you rock!
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cowpoke
climber
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Jul 15, 2011 - 08:29am PT
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So absolutely cool!!! add my name to the list of dads with daughters you two have inspired...way to go, Kara!!!
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Gunkie
Trad climber
Valles Marineris
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Jul 15, 2011 - 08:47am PT
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Wow, that is incredible. Great TR!
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mcreel
climber
Barcelona
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Jul 15, 2011 - 09:26am PT
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Holy buckets! What a trooper!
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Leggs
Sport climber
Made in California, living in The Old Pueblo
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Jul 15, 2011 - 09:48am PT
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Amazing TR I am so inspired by your daughter as a climber and badass, and you, for being an awesome, supportive parent.
Thank you for sharing!
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Michael Kennedy
Social climber
Carbondale, Colorado
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Jul 15, 2011 - 09:55am PT
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Awesome ascent and trip report! Just about the coolest thing I've seen in years.
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Edge
Trad climber
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Jul 15, 2011 - 09:59am PT
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Definitely deserving of the Trip Report Hall of Fame!
Well done!
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Double D
climber
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Jul 15, 2011 - 10:43am PT
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Sweet!
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elcap-pics
Big Wall climber
Crestline CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 10:44am PT
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More than SWEET!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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NotIt
Trad climber
SF, CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 10:46am PT
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your daughter kicks my @ss many times over...
So great!
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Wade Icey
Trad climber
www.alohashirtrescue.com
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:14pm PT
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beautiful...and humbling.
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smithygreg
Social climber
Portland,OR
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:15pm PT
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Allow me to re-iterate what everyone here has already said...This is one bitchin trip report.
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blackbird
Trad climber
the flat water trails...
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:24pm PT
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All I can say is W.O.W.!!!!!
THANK YOU for being such an insipration and for encouraging your kiddos to BE!!
Beautiful!!!
BB
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ydpl8s
Trad climber
Santa Monica, California
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Jul 15, 2011 - 12:39pm PT
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I'm just.....blown away! My favorite line was when she said, "if you were nicer to your partners, you'd have more climbing partners than just your daughter" (may be paraphrasing).
She can hold her own with anyone here on the Taco, in every sense of the word. Great TR!
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Smileygirl
Trad climber
home
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Jul 15, 2011 - 01:55pm PT
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Super report. I hope my kids can be as inspired and fearless. Awesome!
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NigelSSI
Trad climber
B.C.
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:11pm PT
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The smile says it all!
Great job.
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martygarrison
Trad climber
Washington DC
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:21pm PT
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Fantastic!
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Nibs
Trad climber
Humboldt, CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:24pm PT
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WOW!, yes, the best TR ever. Look forward to the next one...which is?
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msiddens
Trad climber
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:29pm PT
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So cool and inspring
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neversummer
climber
30 mins. from suicide USA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 02:39pm PT
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Badass....all of ya'
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KlimbIn
climber
Sandstonia
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Jul 15, 2011 - 03:47pm PT
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I am at a loss for words. Fantastic TR. Superlative fathering AND daughtering.
"You know dad if you were a bit nicer to your climbing partners your daughter wouldn't be the only one who'll climb with you."
Ahahah: my daughters have said similar things.
Thank you for posting.
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the Fet
climber
Tu-Tok-A-Nu-La
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Jul 15, 2011 - 03:58pm PT
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Amazing!!
It looks like it was just the two of you.
How did you manage the belays? Did you self belay or did she belay you off the anchor with a gri-gri? Did she have a cell phone in case you got hurt on lead?
I know some 12 year olds that are pretty amazing, but NONE that could pull that off.
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looking sketchy there...
Social climber
Lassitude 33
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:14pm PT
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That smile says it all. Climbing is fun. Thanks for sharing this.
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:25pm PT
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You two are beyond inspiring! Way to chase your dreams! Those smiling action shots are gems.
"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds, wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act on their dreams with open eyes, to make them possible."
— T.E. Lawrence
As Bachar would say "Dream On!"
Catching your head so young is a huge blessing for a climber. I started at 12 and never looked back! And Jim...you are awesome in your imagination and trust! What a team builder!
If there is anything that I can do to help your climbing along please let me know.
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BirminghamBen
Trad climber
Alabama
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:32pm PT
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I need a partner as tough as Kara.
Heck, I wish I was that tough.
Awesome TR!
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Cancer Boy
Trad climber
Freedonia
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:34pm PT
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Hey Jim,
We were part of the crowd on Serenity/Sons that day you were there. I didn't realize that was just a warm up! Way to go to the both of you!
I have three kids. Girl #1 had no interest. Girl #2 "really hates me - I am not kidding" when I take her up high. #3 Boy got dropped by some 9 year old belayer in a gym "summer camp" and now refuses altogether.
I am so jealous. How did you do it????
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Clint Cummins
Trad climber
SF Bay area, CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:37pm PT
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I've been reading Jim's trip reports for about 20 years and they have always been great fun to read. I forget sometimes that many people have not seen them. It's cool that they are being shared with more folks now! Click on one of the links on the upper left of Jim's report and you'll find a big supply of good stuff (don't try to read it all in one night - pace yourself!).
The other big attraction in this one is that it keeps the dream that "climbing can be family friendly" alive.
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scuffy b
climber
heading slowly NNW
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Jul 15, 2011 - 04:47pm PT
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An amazed WOW wafts thru the air...
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FeelioBabar
Trad climber
One drink ahead of my past.
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Jul 15, 2011 - 05:07pm PT
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coolest damn thing ever. Along with the coolest damn 12 year old ever. Proud. Way to go Dad!
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mike m
Trad climber
black hills
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Jul 15, 2011 - 05:28pm PT
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That is completely awesome. Nic job.
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
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Jul 15, 2011 - 05:47pm PT
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priceless!!!!
She (and Dad) will never forget that.
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marty(r)
climber
beneath the valley of ultravegans
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Jul 15, 2011 - 06:11pm PT
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This is why Al Gore invented the internet! Fantastic adventure for both of you.
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Anastasia
climber
Home
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Jul 15, 2011 - 06:39pm PT
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I hope one day I can stand in your shadows. I am speechless, impressed, happy and excited for you both.
Wow...
Hugs,
Anastasia
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mtnyoung
Trad climber
Twain Harte, California
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Jul 15, 2011 - 07:07pm PT
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Fabulous trip and trip report. There is something quite unique about the relationships between dads and daughters, and you and she are making the most of it. Keep it up and keep posting reports!
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MH2
Boulder climber
Andy Cairns
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Jul 15, 2011 - 10:19pm PT
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You have a partner who sometimes carries his own lunch? That's awesome!
Good thing you are a tough mo fo, Jim Herson. Those bright penetrating eyes of Kara look hard to stand up to.
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R.B.
Big Wall climber
47N 122W
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Jul 16, 2011 - 12:28pm PT
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Being the father of a daughter ... and myself, being the son of a father who taught me how to climb at age 5, I think it is awesome that you had your daughter lead the A1 Robbins Ladder. I remember leading chit as a 8 year old ... but that was way BITD.
Way to go there!
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Betelnut
Mountain climber
So. California
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Jul 15, 2011 - 11:22pm PT
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Wow, you took your child up Higher Cathedral with a fever. So cool, dude!
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Emon
Trad climber
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Jul 16, 2011 - 01:20am PT
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Bump for a great TR. Way to go!
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PhilG
Trad climber
The Circuit, Tonasket WA
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Jul 16, 2011 - 10:58am PT
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Stellar!
I agree with all of the above (well almost all of the comments).
What I love is her expressions of happiness and having fun.
Inspiring, even for one who started his sons climbing, and is now climbing with his grand daughter.
You rock, girl!
Your pretty brave yourself, Dad.
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Chango
Trad climber
norcal
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Jul 16, 2011 - 11:22am PT
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Very cool! In a nation filled with soft, spoiled and disinterested kids, it is great to see this and have my hopes for the future lifted.
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mrtropy
Trad climber
Nor Cal
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Jul 16, 2011 - 01:45pm PT
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Wow! very cool!
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cleo
Social climber
wherever you go, there you are
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Jul 16, 2011 - 02:11pm PT
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Will you adopt me?
So awesome!
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Vegasclimber
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV.
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Jul 16, 2011 - 05:14pm PT
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EPIC!!
Can't put it any better.
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TrundleBum
Trad climber
Las Vegas
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Jul 16, 2011 - 05:33pm PT
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I'm with Guido on this one...
Best TR in a long, long time.
I chuckled at the pic of your daughter stemming "the famed Half Dome Chimneys"
And is she following 'Dike Route' in her approach shoes?
What great experiences 4 a dad'n kid to share.
Yer blessed!
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wayne burleson
climber
Amherst, MA
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Jul 16, 2011 - 09:34pm PT
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Seconding what Clint said, I've also been privileged to be reading
Jim's reports for many years.
He clearly excels in at least three areas; 1) crack climbing,
2) parenting, 3) writing trip reports.
Not bad at on-route photography either...
Great to see him sharing this on Supertopo...
And Kara, what can one say!
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BASE104
Social climber
An Oil Field
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Jul 16, 2011 - 09:57pm PT
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I am gonna bump this one for a month or so. Best TR ever.
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SCseagoat
Trad climber
Santa Cruz
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Jul 17, 2011 - 01:20am PT
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Oh geez...what can possibly be said! Susan
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Conrad
climber
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Jul 17, 2011 - 07:45pm PT
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Nice to read about families getting outdoors. The "warm-ups" are pretty solid.
Cheers....
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phylp
Trad climber
Upland, CA
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Jul 18, 2011 - 02:14pm PT
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Jim, what a wonderful trip report! Thanks for sharing it here. The writing was wonderful and I got a couple of good laughs at poor Chan's expense.
Although my first reaction was, wow, Kara is already 12!?! She has grown into such a beautiful young girl. As a former molecular biologist, I just love seeing the genetics played out in the faces and body types of the next generation. Visually she' s a composite of you both. And she's evidently got your and Anne's climbing genes as well.
Keep posting here for us - ST needs more quAlity climbing content like this.
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JEleazarian
Trad climber
Fresno CA
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Jul 18, 2011 - 02:19pm PT
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Fabulous TR, particularly for this father of daughters. I'll having my 23- and 25-year old daughters read it for their enjoyment and inspiration.
My 23 year old led her first pitch a few days ago. Unfortunately, she leaves for grad school in Illinois in less than a month, so our climbing season together is rather limited.
Thanks again.
John
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jfs
Trad climber
Upper Leftish
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Jul 19, 2011 - 05:53pm PT
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So.
Ridiculously.
Awesome.
I'll say it again.
So. Ridiculously. Awesome.
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J. Werlin
Social climber
Cedaredge, CO
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Jul 19, 2011 - 06:38pm PT
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super-epic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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indolegaines
Social climber
Laramie, WY
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Jul 20, 2011 - 11:02am PT
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Amazing.
"Courage, sacrifice, determination, commitment, toughness, heart, talent, guts. That's what little girls are made of; the heck with sugar and spice."
--- Bethany Hamilton
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David Wilson
climber
CA
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Jul 20, 2011 - 12:08pm PT
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congrats to you and your daughter jim ! i climbed a lot with my son ( and now 21 year old rope gun ) at that age. it was very exciting but also nerve wracking as the stakes felt so high climbing with a youngster. your daughter will remember that forever.
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salad
Big Wall climber
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Jul 20, 2011 - 01:58pm PT
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brought tears to my eyes
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Jim Herson
climber
Emerald Hills, CA
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Author's Reply
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Jul 24, 2011 - 12:33am PT
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A heartfelt thanks for all the warm replies! A couple of quick replies to questions raised above:
@Kurt, re: deciding when she was ready.
The Steck Salathe in daylight. Technically a much harder climb. More importantly she conceived of, trained for, and pretty much begged to do it and her parents are softies.
@karodrinker & @Feg, re: belayed by a 12 year old
With all due respect to Alex Honnold, when he's ready to bump up the pucker factor he needs to be belayed by his tween daughter. I've had my share of solos, spicy leads, and other youthful climbing indiscretions all of which pale in comparison to the first time Kara, at age 10, belayed me up Braille Book. Now that was heads up! She used to use an ATC but that was more for show as she would never be able to catch me with it. Thank goodness for the GriGri2. It feeds like an ATC but autolocks so I'm actually on belay now. It's also one of those don't-ask-don't-tell situations. She's never ever hosed me on a clip which leads me to believe she has a boat load of slack out.
@Fet, re: cell phone.
We had a cell but only because Anne made a heroic 2hr detour after we had left it in her car. I told her not to bother but for some reason she over road me?
@Mighty Hiker, re: Does she know about your TR?
She's away at music camp for two weeks. She'll see it soon enough though.
@Nutjob, re: when she started climbing
-Jim
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sikcby
Trad climber
Madrid
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Jul 21, 2011 - 11:23am PT
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It´s so amazing the things you´re doing with your daughter... she should be the happiest girl ever.
I can´t imagine nicest childhood that climbing in Yosemite with my dad.
Awesome dude, awesome.
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Cain J Waters
Mountain climber
Ithaca, NY
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Jul 21, 2011 - 01:40pm PT
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Jim- your trip report has been shared among many climbing and non-climbing parents as a source of astonishment and inspiration. You and your wife must be the most proudest of parents. My wife and I look forward to reading about your coming adventures. This is right on par with your stories of freeing the Salathe Wall, maybe even more impressive. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story.
-CW
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High Fructose Corn Spirit
Gym climber
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Jul 21, 2011 - 01:47pm PT
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She's never ever hosed me on a clip which leads me to believe she has a boat load of slack out.
Hahaha. :)
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Brock
Trad climber
RENO, NV
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Jul 22, 2011 - 06:16pm PT
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You must be proud. Hope my girls are that into it too. Thank you for the post. I showed this to my wife, she enjoyed it too.
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steveA
Trad climber
Wolfeboro, NH
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Jul 28, 2011 - 08:32am PT
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Unbelievable! Pretty impressive start to a future climbing career!
I did some pretty good climbs with my son, starting at the age of 13.
I'm sure these early experiences helped form him into the successful person he is today.
Good job Dad and rock on girl!
( my son still wants to do that route with me).
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micronut
Trad climber
Fresno/Clovis, ca
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Jul 28, 2011 - 11:12am PT
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Awesome and inspirational. The feat is amazing, but the best part is actually seeing a parent spending time with a kid these days. A rare thing indeed sadly. I'm a dad of four. The details and reputation route will fade into obscurity, but the time with Dad will never be forgotten. Bravo.
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kate.ogden@stockton.edu
climber
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Jul 28, 2011 - 09:35pm PT
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Hi Jim, would you consider emailing me about your photos of climbing with Kara? I'm looking for something like this for a book on Yosemite. It's all pretty tentative, and easier to explain in email! Thanks - Kate. kate.ogden@stockton.edu
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Chugach
Trad climber
Vermont
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Jul 29, 2011 - 08:59am PT
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Magnificent!
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Jennie
Trad climber
Elk Creek, Idaho
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Outstanding! Thank you.
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gonamok
climber
dont make me come over there
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Aug 20, 2011 - 05:46am PT
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Its a special parent that enables one so young to seek their full potential, and a special child that takes that opportunity and runs with it like Kara has.
Heres to both of you and to a superb TR. I know every parent who read it felt some pride in Kara. What a confident, capable and exhuberant kid she is!
Im turning off my computer with a smile on my face...thanks
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MBrown
Big Wall climber
The Eastside.... UUUUHHHHHHH!
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Aug 20, 2011 - 01:01pm PT
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awesome! you are the coolest dad ever! and have the coolest daughter ever!
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sol_dog
Trad climber
Oakland, CA
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Apr 27, 2012 - 08:30am PT
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Whoa! You guys rock
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Peter Haan
Trad climber
Wyoming
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Apr 27, 2012 - 08:55am PT
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This is a really unusual, even privileged, peek into the family life of some astounding and apparently brilliant people, young as well as old. Herson himself is incredibly funny and a great read himself. What a game changer too, for the rest of us. Thanks for sharing this terrific outing with us, Jim.
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briham89
Big Wall climber
santa cruz, ca
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Sep 26, 2012 - 08:19pm PT
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Bump! This is so freaking cool
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limpingcrab
Gym climber
Minkler, CA
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Sep 28, 2012 - 02:10am PT
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I am such a wuss
Awesome x 10
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FRUMY
Trad climber
Bishop,CA
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Sep 28, 2012 - 10:09am PT
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The best. TFPU.
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jldorais
Big Wall climber
Salt Lake City
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Sep 28, 2012 - 03:52pm PT
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Amazing, thanks!
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Johnny K.
climber
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Jul 16, 2013 - 07:34pm PT
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Up
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Andy Fielding
Trad climber
UK
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Dec 15, 2013 - 09:01pm PT
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Another bump for a brilliant TR.
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Ottawa Doug
Social climber
Ottawa, Canada
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Dec 16, 2013 - 04:11am PT
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Wow! That was heartwarming and jaw dropping all at the same time.
Now I have to try and figure out how to hide this TR from my friends at work so they still think my mini conquests are of any importance! :)
The pics were all amazing, but my favorite was that beautiful smiling girl on Big Sandy. Great TR Jim, thanks for sharing your adventures with us.
Cheers,
Doug
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Bad Climber
Trad climber
The Lawless Border Regions
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Dec 16, 2013 - 09:32am PT
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Thanks for bumping this! I've seen another TR from Jim and his midget crew when they did the E. Butt of El Cap. But this? Holy bovine, Batman! Jim and Kara, my hat is off to you both! She's 14 now. Leading 14's? Sounds like she's into music, too, so maybe her life is more balanced. The poise and joy and sense of play for such huge undertakings--makes me want to put on a rope and get some.
Funny, jokes about hanging up my climbing shoes forever don't come to mind. I'm really happy and inspired to see this! HD was one of my best climbs ever. It's impossible to imagine it at 12!
Wow. Wow. Wow.
BAd
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Dirka
Trad climber
Hustle City
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Dec 16, 2013 - 11:25am PT
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Wow. Just wow
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GLee
Social climber
Montucky
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I just lurked into this.....
WOW!! and Another BUMP
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Spanky
Social climber
boulder co
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This is definitely one of the best TRs on Supertopo. What an amazing experience to have with your kid, I'm in awe!
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Jaysen
Big Wall climber
NYC
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Feb 10, 2014 - 08:33am PT
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This trip report might be the only reason im ever going to have kids.
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10b4me
Social climber
Lida Junction
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Mar 12, 2014 - 03:41pm PT
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bump
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Jeremy Hadland
Trad climber
aptos
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May 18, 2014 - 10:58pm PT
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Was that you Jim and Kara my buddy and I ran into on NEB higher cathedral in April 2014? You saw me take a 30' winger off the last pitch and offered me a top rope to the top? If so, thanks for the lift!
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amora
Trad climber
Diamond Bar
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May 22, 2014 - 03:31pm PT
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you are bad ass parents. GREAT WORK DAD AND YOUNG LADY
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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May 22, 2014 - 03:39pm PT
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What's Kara doing next weekend, NIAD? Hahaha...as it turned out...!
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d1retz
Trad climber
NV
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May 22, 2014 - 06:58pm PT
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Best TR I've ever read! BRAVO!!! :)
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anonevolve
Sport climber
Houston, TX
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Dec 17, 2014 - 08:44pm PT
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love love LOVED this! so inspired for my trip this summer! ill think of her every moment i get scared and remember this story
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dugillian
Trad climber
Vancouver
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Dec 18, 2014 - 01:09pm PT
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Wow...Wow....Wow
This TR makes my whole year!!
The smile on her face says it all.
I have had my 11 year old daughter out on the rock a few times and she has had that same smile.
Good on you and thanks.
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le_bruce
climber
Oakland, CA
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Dec 19, 2014 - 09:34am PT
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My five year old daughter and I were at the Ironworks gym climbing when we saw Kara and her mom crushing in the cave.
The daughter, who is usually ultra shy, wanted to meet the girl from the stories and pictures I'd shown her, and asked Kara if it was hard to climb El Cap. Kara mentioned something about being really tired at the end of the day.
"Dad she climbed to the top in one day?" daughter later asked. "But why did you take four days?"
Hahhaha. "She's better!"
Easy question, easy answer.
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The Regular Northwest Face. Photo: Mark Kroese
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