DMGWhat an Interesting Weekend
In a lot of ways, this weekend's Joshua Tree trip was disappointing. But the more I think about it, the more I realize what a valuable experience it was.
We all learned a lot about Joshua Tree and about ourselves. I think I'm more motivated as a climber than I've been in a long time. I have a mental list of specific skills to work on, and goals to work toward and achieve.
My major goals for the trip were to have fun with my friends, to give everyone's motivation a boost, and to get to know Joshua Tree. Two out of three ain't bad, especially when the one we missed (fun) is temporary, and the other two will help make the next trip better.
And I'm really happy with the way all my gear performed. Though we wanted for some items, the gear we had performed really well. I slept well, and that's of monumental importance for me. My biggest worry is put to rest (ha ha), and I'm now unreservedly jazzed about Wyoming.