amazingly it seems to have forgotten to rain in Cumbria for a few days :-); which meant we have actually been able to get out.... and do things - amazing.
Although Claire was in London this weekend, we took advantage of our non-working status to grab a couple of quick climbs in between her studies.
On Friday, we headed to Snail Shell Crag, which lies above the delectable hamlet of Mosedale on the side of Carrock Fell. Recess Route was our choice; graded D+, a bizarre grade and not one I 100% agree with. The walk-up is a bit of a slog, following the side of the scree run (there is a faint path); the route is a short delight. Most routes on the crag have the reputation of being a bit bold; this one was fine; gear when it was needed (in truth the route is so easy and the friction so good I only placed a couple of pieces) and amazing friction. To my delight, Claire seemed to fine the route enjoyable as well; and seconded up well. Trusting one's feet is central to climbing these kinds of routes and is something Claire managed to do well (the friction on Carrock Fell is superb). A lovely lunch at the Mill Inn in Mungrisedale followed.
Today we also escaped for a couple of hours climbing. We went back to Church Crag in Thirlmere and re-did Confidence. Quite an apt route to do, as I found it ok to lead (it is a little bold) and Claire seconded it really well....and thoroughly enjoyed herself to boot.
Meanwhile, the countdown to exams and Botswana continues apace - as does the countdown to the race in October - which I am not exactly ready for yet!! Arjuna is going in to the bike shop tomorrow to get a compact chainset fitted - basically making the climbs easier! Time to get the mountain bike out!!
