St Bees

As my computer is currently saying "DPM Iteration" and I have no idea how long that'll take I might as well write a blog post.

Basically, I've been going to the Foundry or Works occasionally and noticing improvements each time but still, I feel generally weak and in terms of all out 'strong as ever' comparison, I'm weak as a baby.

No matter though as it seemingly makes little difference.
Friday night came and Nat and I weren't happy looking at the Easter weekend destroying weather forecasts. However, a stroke of good luck was that led me to look at the St Bees forecast which was stunning for this weekend. One hour later, we were headed North to our beloved yellow van and then onwards across the 66 to St Bees.

It's been a long time since I was last there, a decade perhaps. I turned up young/stupid and with a rope to find most things gopping wet. This time I took the pad. We slipped our way down the easy descent and got stuck into the classics as the sun beat down upon us. The place is like port ysgo but much much better (landings and outlook).

I didn't have any particular goals so the day was spent running around like the preverbial dog with 6, trying everything and anything. I bumped into a fellow UKB'er which was good for banter and for pad stackage for Nat.

A quick shower in the middle of the day had us all ready to leave but too much chatting allowed the clouds to part and the rays of sun to once again beat down upon us. We waited for the rock to dry (like good responsible sandstone climbers) and then carried on, feeling ever more tired as the day progressed.

The other guys left and Nat and I hung around trying various bits and bobs before sacking it back to the van... via the Fishermans steps. Now Dan told me he replaced the rope which inspired confidence, until I saw the bolts, this is an accident waiting to happen. With a pad hanging loosely off your back and a stretchy galaxy to hold onto I wasn't that comfortable. Why on earth did I even consider the more dangerous exit option?

Anyway, we made it to the van. Realised we were knackered and as we'd both climbed well (or it felt like it to me), we went back to Keswick for a chippy tea.

Now thats not quite so much pressure on getting away for Easter weekend and we can simply see what the weather does to us.