Smith Rock, Oregon

When I was a kid, my Nana and Papa had this cottage in Canada that was my ultimate happy place. Some of my favorite memories were of them bringing my brothers and I out to the cottage for weekends. We’d play on the lake, have bonfires, make arts and crafts, play games, it was always something. Although not far from home, it was our own little retreat where we felt at peace. I haven’t felt that way about a place until the first time I came out here.

This is where I had my first lead, first multi pitch climb, first time climbing with numb fingers on cold rock in October, first time catching a lead fall, and oh so many first mistakes. The giddiness, the learning, the vulnerability all come together and deliver whatever I’ve been missing. I never have much of a plan when I drive out here but this place has a way of giving me exactly what I need.

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