I seldom backtrack
I'll zig-zag North and South to a new place I want to see all the time
But I'm trying to get West
So I really don't like the feeling of moving East
Especially on a road I've already traversed
However, I was bestowed a Great Honor
Invited by the Chief of Atzlan Village to attend their Sun Dance Ceremony
So for that, I departed Crestone and returned to Atzlan
Thanks to Pete Howel for the photos of Mount Blanca
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sun_Dance
I had heard a bit about the Sun Dance Ceremony from different people. Out of respect I will not write of it here, save for one bit of the ceremony that I was particularly excited for. A four day fast of no food or water—a challenge which I had yet in my life to experience. When I was invited to return for the Sun Dance, I was not sure if that meant I was invited to participate as a Dancer or not. I wanted to, if I may, but I understood there are many formalities and practices regarding these ceremonies and I may not be allowed to participate at all. Which was fine. Seeing the ceremony and being able to give service is already a high honor for me. But I surmised that I could definitely take part in the fasting. After all, I can refrain from eating and drinking if I like, right?
It was about one-hundred miles around Mt. Blanca and down Pass Creek to return to Gardener. Mt. Blanca is a sacred mountain to the folk of Atzlan, and one the more popular peaks everyone seems to talk about. Riding around it naturally seeded within me a desire to climb it. However, I was rather encumbered as I acquired some extra supplies in Crestone (socks, sweaters, etc) that I felt would be useful for a community, and carried those with me to deliver (it was a couple hours riding out of town that I realized I had left my camera behind). I was also simply excited to get to Atzlan village, so even though I was wearing some great hiking boots that I knew I 'd be leaving at the Village, I decided I'd climb Mount Blanca after the SunDance, on the way back.
There had been some wildfires recently and some roads were closed. Undaunted I rode forward, taking the pass at night to decrease my chances of being turned away. So I saw nothing in the darkness, but for miles the smell of burnt pine surrounded me. For the last stretch of the ride my bike light ran out of charge. There were Storms in the distance and occasional drizzling about me, so there was no help from the Moonlight on account of the clouds. Luckily the road was clear and I could just make out the yellow line. Riding back into Gardener in near pitch darkness, watching the lightning in the distance, tracing the line I could barely see, is a ride I will not soon forget.
There had been some wildfires recently and some roads were closed. Undaunted I rode forward, taking the pass at night to decrease my chances of being turned away. So I saw nothing in the darkness, but for miles the smell of burnt pine surrounded me. For the last stretch of the ride my bike light ran out of charge. There were Storms in the distance and occasional drizzling about me, so there was no help from the Moonlight on account of the clouds. Luckily the road was clear and I could just make out the yellow line. Riding back into Gardener in near pitch darkness, watching the lightning in the distance, tracing the line I could barely see, is a ride I will not soon forget.
I arrived at Atzlan and encountered the chief first. He seemed a little surprised to see me, but also seemed to remember the invitation he bestowed to me. I had stayed in "The Dome" a month prior, a comfortable structure built for migrant workers such as myself, but with Sun Dance approaching that building was now fully occupied, even the floors, so he directed me to a messy shed and instructed me to clear a space for myself in there. I had peeked my head in here before to discover a clutter of dusty tools, signs, sacred items, and some other unsorted miscellaneous. Some things seemed to have been removed but otherwise the shed was in the same disarray I remembered it to be in. I got started cleaning straight away, but was soon informed that I had arrived Just in Time for a Sweat Lodge, and was invited to participate, so I went off with the people to that.
The Sweat Lodge was intense, but I was far more prepared this time for it and lasted through all the rounds without being tempted to quit for fresh air. I was able to express my intentions of being there as well—to serve and contribute positively to the community—and was thankful for the opportunity for that. Afterwards, I began a talk with a member of the tribe about the ceremony. I did not know much about it and was being educated by him, but when I expressed my excitement for the fast, he informed me that no, I would not be allowed to participate in that. I should have just nodded and silently directed my own diet later, but feeling pressed and responding to that emotion, I argued I have the right to eat or not eat as I wish. This push back offended him, at which point I then stopped responding and walked away. After contemplating the issue, I approached the man again and said, "I will begin my fast tonight. Then it will not conflict with the Ceremony, and thus there's no problem, right?" He seemed to agree, and that was that.
I drank lots and lots of water and ate a pretty normal sized meal as I cleared a small area in the shed for myself, and come midnight, began my four day fast.
Day One
I began my day quite leisurely, with every intention to keep it that way. I was only a little worried about energy, but much more concerned about hydration over the next four days. I figured, so long as I took it easy and stayed out of the sun, I'd make it all the way. So I spent all day cleaning the shed, with frequent music and nap breaks in between. I also delivered the supplies I'd brought to the folk in The Dome as I organized my things. I'd like to say I did a good job. Instead of a jumble of stuff, dust, and critter feces, the shed can now comfortably shelter at least four people. I also unearthed some useful supplies—blankets and such. Definitely a good days work of no food or water! As the sun began to set, I finally went to great Brother Micheal, and to my delight, was invited to play a game of Magic: the gathering.
Despite having sold most of my collection to help fund my journey, I still Love this card game with a passion. I even carry a deck with me on my bicycle! After retrieving my deck (which is a pretty cool Red and White deck that focuses on defense, until it gets the right cards out to explode a huge amount of damage in one game winning turn!) Micheal and I went to the home of the man I had had the conflict with regarding fasting the previous day, who apparently had recently learned how to play. I was glad to be playing with him—an mtg game is a great way to get to know someone. Unfortunately, there was a rules dispute towards the end of the game regarding a Coat of Arms and the ability of Goblin Sharpshooter. I won't get into the technical details here, but I've been playing this game since fifth grade, so I knew the rules here 100%.
https://www.mtgsalvation.com/forums/magic-fundamentals/magic-rulings/magic-rulings-archives/278557-goblin-sharpshooter
It was less the rule dispute itself but more just the energy the disagreement brought out with sparked the conflict of the previous day. I did try to resolve the situation, but at a certain point the man just wasn't listening to me any longer. He would simply not let me speak and was so enraged he wanted to run me off of the grounds immediately despite being then Night. He drove off to wrangle others to help him in this. Thankfully, my brother Micheal spoke for me, as did my brother Ben. They convinced the man that the issue would be further discussed and resolved in the morning, and everyone retired to their dwellings.
Before going to sleep, I organized my things, and loaded up LionHeart.
Day Two
I returned to Atzlan Village to participate in the Sun Dance Ceremony. I was excited to see brother Micheal and his beautiful family again. I was excited for the challenge of the fast, and what I understood to be an initiation of Warriorhood afterwards. I was honored and humbled to be invited to witness such a Sacred event. I wanted to serve the community♣—to Give Back as I could. I wanted to contribute positively. I definitely didn't want to bring negative contentious energy to this occasion or place which I'd truly grown Love for. So in the morning, I rode over to say farewell to Micheal and his family, filled up the camelback with his water, and departed Atzlan of my own volition.
As I rode the rocky sand rode out of Atzlan back toward Gardener, I knew a massive challenge had been presented before me. It was day two of my fast. I decided I would climb Mount Blanca on the way back. It was about sixty-two miles and 2600 ft elevation climb from Atzlan to the base of Mount Blanca (I had a rough idea of these numbers at the time). I left because I didn't want to start conflict there, but I was pretty disappointed about the whole thing. The challenge though—well that was what I asked for—here it was. So I resolved to finish the fast and climb Mount Blanca. No matter how long it took me, I wouldn't eat until I reached the top of the Mountain, though the goal was to get to the peak before the end of the forth day. I also resolved that I wouldn't touch Micheal's Water in the camelback until I prayed over it at the top.
Just sitting around in the shade is a bit different than heavy physical activity in the hot sun. As I climbed Pass Creek, some nice folk pulled next to me and offered me a water bottle. I took that as a sign that yes, I Needed water, and accepted their gift.
An entire forest of Ash...
I hadn't seen it when riding through before during the night
But the smell of burnt Aspens was still thick and heavy in the air
Thank you Ms. Eva for these pics!
AND FOR WATER!!!
I continued forward, really feeling the effects of barely drinking any water. It was becoming more and more difficult to catch my breath. By the time I made it to Fort Garland I felt like I was about to feint and stumbled into a gas station and asked if I could just sit in front of the fan. I sat there for about an hour until I felt ready enough to go back into the sun. Before I left, I noticed there was a small cup of water near where I was sitting that had been there the whole time. Even though I broke the water fast, I was still trying to restrain myself as much as possible. It seemed that water was meant for me, so even though it wasn't much, I drank it down thankfully.
I stopped in the town of Blanca for directions to the base of the mountain, which to my exhausted exasperation was still another ten miles or so away. I found a half drank can of Monster energy drink, which I usually wouldn't even want, but feeling Need, poured the drink into my bike bottle for later. I didn't plan to drink it 'til days later, but about either miles later, the two or so mile road from the main route to the base of Blanca is nothing but loose sand. That meant no riding, just pushing my whole rig in the sand. The sun had set, which was good that it was cooler, but not being able to see as my bicycle got stuck again and again in sand ditch after sand ditch made for a frustrating experience. It came to the point where I could barely move forward, literally stuck in the sand, as my strength just failed to be there. With no other option, I drank the Monster. I hate those energy drinks—tasted like medicine. It did, however, get me the last couple miles through the sand to the camping area at the base, just before the road/trail gets hard.
Day Three
I woke and began organizing my things right away. Sleeping bag, of course. Camelback and a bit of special food for later, after the mountain. Large plastic bag to keep gear dry in case of rain. or warmth, my new Royal Cavalry Legendary Orange Plaid! And my Burning Stormshell. Riding Jackets are great waterproof windbreakers in general. Lighter, for Fire. And finally, my Journal and pens, to capture this experience as I could (and a bag to put stuff in). I tied my tarp down over LionHeart and set up the mountain.
It was eight or so miles of rocky uphill until one would reach Como Lake. That'd be the perfect place for base camp (as most hikers do). Then I could reach the peak tomorrow, as planned. Honestly, the not eating part was fine. Now and then there'd be a hunger, and there was a general feeling of low energy, but it was all this on such little water that was having a much more serious effect. Every step became more and more difficult. As I climbed I started to feel the elevation much more as well.
I couldn't catch my breathe to save my life
Had to stop to breathe every fifteen yards or so
And thanks for the pics Ben (:
I hadn't felt so winded by the elevation since the first mountain climb out of Pueblo, and this became far difficult as I pressed on. After some amount of miles, I'm not even sure, but more than five, I came upon the first water source along the trail. A Gorgeous Creek flowing with Pristine Mountain Water. I fell to my knees. I said a prayer of thanks. I dipped my hands in the water and began cupping up the stream to my mouth. Despite my thirst, I was still trying to at least restrain myself, so I only had five handfulls of water. I have never been more thirsty in my entire life. I will never forget that water.
I pressed on, feeling only slightly better, but still dehydrated and unable to catch my breathe, no matter how long I rested for. It was grueling, but at last I arrived at Como Lake, which is absolutely Beautiful. I staggered to the end of the Lake, where the water begins to flow. I said to myself I'd only have what I needed to keep me going, but once I began drinking I couldn't stop. I couldn't convince myself of a reason to. The water was so clean and good and perfect and I was so tired and thirsty. After drinking pretty much as much as I could, I wobbled to a nearby small tree and promptly passed out in its shade. This pretty much ended my water fast.
I woke maybe an hour or two later. The area would have been perfect to camp at, but I still had some daylight and the more I hiked now the closer I'd be tomorrow. I had some more water from the same spot and navigated around the Lake. I met a few hikers camping in the area and started trekking upward again away from the lake. I got pretty much as far as one would want to comfortably camp, near the end of the tree line, and within earshot of the soothing sound of another creek. It wasn't a cold night at all, and I passed out pretty quickly after exploring the area around my site a bit.
Day Four
I woke slowly, watching the sun rise over the mountain peaks and spilling sunshine into the valley I rested int. I didn't crawl out of my bag until the sun had poured over me, warming me enough to get me moving (I am not have never been a Morning Person). I put everything I wasn't continuing to carry in the plastic bag and hung it in a tree, then began the ascent. The climb up Blanca past the lake was much more enjoyable. Aside from the trail itself being less rocky, the area was greener and less dry. And of course, I was now allowing myself to drink water (though not Micheal's, yet).
As far as ascents go, I had a late start, and soon enough I was crossing paths with some of the hikers I had met the day before around the lake. Each one gave me the same report, successively getting worse and worse. You should turn back, there's a Storm coming. I didn't worry though. There was no turning back. This was Day Four, and I had to reach the top. Absolutely No Turning Back. One man pressed me, saying I'd be endangering others. I didn't look at him. "This is the Challenge God has placed before me." He huffed and walked off. That's how I saw it though. To retreat then in that moment would have been a complete lacking of faith. I would be fine. I'd deal with whatever hit me. I Just had to not give up. I Just had to reach the top.
When I finally reached the ridge, I could see down into the valley on the other side of the mountain. The valley that started all this. I could see Mount Lindsey. I could see Lili Lake. I could see the dark clouds everyone was warning me about. I seemed to still have plenty of time though—they were not yet over this Sacred valley laying before me, but they were definitely heading this way, and they were definitely big. I appreciated the beauty of the vista for a moment, recalling my time there and what it had meant to me, then turned and continued my ascent up the ridge.
For some reason, Mount Blanca was covered in gnats. I don't know why, no other peak was like this, but there were gnats everywhere and everywhere. As I neared the peak they only increased. There were so many gnats one couldn't place a hand or foot anywhere without squashing several of them. They bounced and flew around in swarms, making everything just kind of horrid. I at last reached the peak, which was overrun by them. I found a rock to stand above the hoards on and prayed over the water, looking out over the stormy expanse, imbuing the Zapata Atzlan Micheal Mountains Water with My Hopes, My Dreams, all the things that I'm Working and Wishing for.
Oh! If only You could See!
See What I See!
See these visions I have.
See What I See!
See these visions I have.
What I Want to Build.
The Sacred Space upon this World I Want to Create.
The Dreams I Want to Experience.
This Dream
That I Want to Share
Share With You.
There's different parts of me that Want to Share this Dream with each of You
And there are different Dreams that I have for each of You
And I'll always have them.
Always
Always
Until the day I die I swear I will
But this Dream
Zapata Atzlan Micheal Mountains
If only You could See
I See it now
Every time I drink the Mountains' Water
I See it.
I stole something from Atzlan Village.
I never take something that isn't mine without asking. Not unless it's in a dumpster, or on the side of The Road, or some sort of clear disuse, though I suppose this was on the line.
As I cleaned that shed, I had found a jar of Sunflower Seed Butter, not quite there yet but slowly turning rancid. Sunflower Seeds are sacred to me. Sunflower Seed Butter in particular.
You should know why.
So I didn't ask, and I took that jar and carried it to the top of this mountain, a Holy Place. After my prayers over the water, I knelled by the erected rock wall, gnats buzzing about, and prayed again over that jar. I technically broke my fast then, as I had a small bit of it, and left the jar there at the top, along with some other gifts I had found on the side of The Road (a cool hat and a nice knife). The Storms were approaching. They were past Mount Lindsey now. I took a short cut down the side of the face, rather than following the ridge, to head straight for the trail. Every single rock here was loose and I slid down most of the way. I could See The Lake for a while and I spoke to You as I navigated the rock slides, and said bye as the valley and Lake left my view from the rising ridge.
The shortcut was difficult and painful but definitely saved me some time. Just as I made it back to the path, not too far below the lowest point of the ridge, the sky CRACKED and ROARED.
ccccccKKKKKKKKOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
And immediately following that, HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIL.
Ranging from penny to quarter sized. An hour or so ago it was sunny and summer. And suddenly, just like that, Winter. As the storms approached the winds picked up, so I had already equipped my Stormshell—which definitely saved my life, protecting me from the wind and hail and retaining just enough heat to keep me moving (though I took a note, for future mountain expeditions, a wool insulating layer would be an astounding improvement). Under this shower of hail I raced down the side of Blanca, taking caution to not slip upon the piles of ice balls piling up everywhere, confidently hoping, knowing even, that the Lightning would not be taking me this day.
Ranging from penny to quarter sized. An hour or so ago it was sunny and summer. And suddenly, just like that, Winter. As the storms approached the winds picked up, so I had already equipped my Stormshell—which definitely saved my life, protecting me from the wind and hail and retaining just enough heat to keep me moving (though I took a note, for future mountain expeditions, a wool insulating layer would be an astounding improvement). Under this shower of hail I raced down the side of Blanca, taking caution to not slip upon the piles of ice balls piling up everywhere, confidently hoping, knowing even, that the Lightning would not be taking me this day.
Well I knew I couldn't turn around and mock it
But I knew so long as I focused on descending
But I knew so long as I focused on descending
I would not Fall.
As I made it back to my camp the storm abated. I was freezing and mostly wet. I had prepared a pyre, but hadn't brought an extra covering, so it was all soaked. Shivering, I searched for dry wood on the lower branches of the pine trees to break off. I fixed my pyre up and got a fire started just in time as the sun set, though with everything wet it did take me a good while. I huddled by the fire and dried my soaked shoes and socks (one of those my-life-depends-on-building-this-fire campfires). The rocks were heated by the Fire and it was nice to place my hands and feet upon them in just the right spot. It reminded me of the Sweat Lodges, where as they heat the space of the Lodge with many red hot rocks from a large pyre. That gave me an idea...
I ran to where my sleeping bag was laid out, a relatively dry spot under a large tree, and dug a football sized hole under the bottom of the bag. After my fire burned out, I covered my embers, then using another not hot rock, picked up a couple very hot ones and brought them to the hole I dug. I buried them under a thin layer of dirt just in case the rocks themselves were hot enough to melt the sleeping bag fabric. The idea worked perfectly. I fell asleep quickly and comfortably, my feet warm from the heat rising up from the ground.
Day Five
I woke again slowly, watching the sun rise over the same mountain peak. I was very excited for breakfast, though I hadn't brought too much food at all. A can of condensed cream of mushroom soup (which had lots of salt—just what my body needed) and a bag of instant mashed potatoes. Both of these items I had received from a traveling couple, Allan and Courtney, who pulled over to the side of The Road to offer me aid about a week prior as I was riding to Atzlan, even though they were actually on their way to the hospital as Courtney had hurt her arm. I mixed in the Zapata Atzlan Micheal Mountains Water to the potatoes, and even though it was less than 1,000 calories total, I felt full and energized.
Full and energized enough to challenge myself again. The peak that the sun was rising over was called Little Bear. Most folk talk about Mount Blanca as the Mountain to climb, so I figured with a name like Little Bear, it'd be easy! The only other food I had was a granola bar given to me by a Mataji. I put that and my little journal in my pocket and headed down to the creek. I had drank most of Micheal's Water, but left a little bit in there on purpose, so that there would be a small amount left mixed with the water running down from Mount Blanca. I filled the camelback, drank of my fill straight from the creek, and headed out.
I had seen the alternate trail leading up Little Bear the other day so I knew just where to go. After a moderate incline made up of giant boulders one hops from one to the other on (fun) the peak basically begins and there's a super steep climb to the ridge. It was nice and sunny and not too hot so even though it was challenging and I was technically calorically deficient I felt great! The Mountain Creek Water definitely having special effects. It was still a nice surprise though when half way up this face, I found a powerade hidden under a rock! I'm not really a powerade drinker, but I figured it a gift as I probably needed the electrolytes, and drank about a third of it.
As I got to the top of the ridge, I met a nice couple that were on their way down. We laughed about the powerade bottle and they gave me some tips on the upcoming climb. "Class 4 climb for sure," Rob had said. "Oh, yeah, cool." I had no idea what that meant. I would only learn later that Little Bear is actually considered by some to be the hardest peak to climb in Colorado. I proceeded along the ridge line which progressively became more and more difficult to navigate. After the fourth or third sub-peak, the final climb was a straight vertical wall of rock.
I carefully made my way forward i.e. Up. Hovering over a drop that'd leave me unquestionably dead and flattened, I reached my hand out to grab a hold and *crrrrrck* a loose rock! The rock fell as I returned my hand to its former position, the banging and crashing down the mountain side echoing a haunting and uneven melody. I breathed. I looked around for another handhold, reached and *crrrrcK!* another loose rock! As that rock also fell, it was at this point I finally felt it. Just a slight weakness. Some amount of strength was missing from me. My Will and Determination had brought me this far, but I was also aware I'd barely eaten anything in five days. This fact being considered as I felt the slight loss of strength, self-doubt began to creep in. Could I really do this? Not the best time to ask that question... Not when Not Doing is Death. "I don't Want to Die." I thought. And with that, I felt Fear. Fear of The Fall. Fear of another loose rock. Fear of Never Living and Experiencing the things that I was climbing that mountain for. With Fear in my Heart, I couldn't go on. The Fear gripped me as hung there, unsure of how to retreat, but I know panicking is the opposite of how to get anything done, so I breathed, carefully found a place below me to place my foot, and began descending.
I was soon off the wall. I had the Mataji Granola bar while sitting on the ridge, looking out over the distance. There were storms in the distance. Out here, one can see across the whole valley, and storms move about with the wind. Though one can see them, it's often hard to tell which direction they're going. After appreciating the view and finishing my bit of nuts and honey, I began descending. Back along the ridge, then down the same steep slope. I stopped and had another third of the powerade along the way. Just as I reached the bottom of the steep slope and the terrain levels out a bit to large boulders, it began to rain. The rain quickly increased to a pour. The boulders became super slippery, but I was careful, and considered myself lucky, as had I been caught in this shower while on that steep slope I might not be writing this right now. I found a tiny cave of sorts and took some shelter there until the rain lightened up, then finished the boulder area and back to the main trail, then I was Base Camp Free!
Soaked again, this time I had covered the fire pit with some plastic bag I had found, so it was dry and ready to go! I started the fire up and for the second night in a row, huddled by it, drying my socks and shoes while warming my hands and feet. I stayed by it for an hour or so while the sun set. Tomorrow I'd descend the Mountain, hop back on LionHeart, and begin riding back to Crestone. I let the Fire die down, scattered and covered the ashes, and grabbed the few rocks that I'd placed in it. I buried them at my feet and fell asleep, happy to have survived, pretty sure it was the right move turning around, but as is often the case with me, despite what I had accomplished, still feeling rather discontent. I Failed to reach the Top of Little Bear.
I had seen the alternate trail leading up Little Bear the other day so I knew just where to go. After a moderate incline made up of giant boulders one hops from one to the other on (fun) the peak basically begins and there's a super steep climb to the ridge. It was nice and sunny and not too hot so even though it was challenging and I was technically calorically deficient I felt great! The Mountain Creek Water definitely having special effects. It was still a nice surprise though when half way up this face, I found a powerade hidden under a rock! I'm not really a powerade drinker, but I figured it a gift as I probably needed the electrolytes, and drank about a third of it.
As I got to the top of the ridge, I met a nice couple that were on their way down. We laughed about the powerade bottle and they gave me some tips on the upcoming climb. "Class 4 climb for sure," Rob had said. "Oh, yeah, cool." I had no idea what that meant. I would only learn later that Little Bear is actually considered by some to be the hardest peak to climb in Colorado. I proceeded along the ridge line which progressively became more and more difficult to navigate. After the fourth or third sub-peak, the final climb was a straight vertical wall of rock.
I carefully made my way forward i.e. Up. Hovering over a drop that'd leave me unquestionably dead and flattened, I reached my hand out to grab a hold and *crrrrrck* a loose rock! The rock fell as I returned my hand to its former position, the banging and crashing down the mountain side echoing a haunting and uneven melody. I breathed. I looked around for another handhold, reached and *crrrrcK!* another loose rock! As that rock also fell, it was at this point I finally felt it. Just a slight weakness. Some amount of strength was missing from me. My Will and Determination had brought me this far, but I was also aware I'd barely eaten anything in five days. This fact being considered as I felt the slight loss of strength, self-doubt began to creep in. Could I really do this? Not the best time to ask that question... Not when Not Doing is Death. "I don't Want to Die." I thought. And with that, I felt Fear. Fear of The Fall. Fear of another loose rock. Fear of Never Living and Experiencing the things that I was climbing that mountain for. With Fear in my Heart, I couldn't go on. The Fear gripped me as hung there, unsure of how to retreat, but I know panicking is the opposite of how to get anything done, so I breathed, carefully found a place below me to place my foot, and began descending.
I was soon off the wall. I had the Mataji Granola bar while sitting on the ridge, looking out over the distance. There were storms in the distance. Out here, one can see across the whole valley, and storms move about with the wind. Though one can see them, it's often hard to tell which direction they're going. After appreciating the view and finishing my bit of nuts and honey, I began descending. Back along the ridge, then down the same steep slope. I stopped and had another third of the powerade along the way. Just as I reached the bottom of the steep slope and the terrain levels out a bit to large boulders, it began to rain. The rain quickly increased to a pour. The boulders became super slippery, but I was careful, and considered myself lucky, as had I been caught in this shower while on that steep slope I might not be writing this right now. I found a tiny cave of sorts and took some shelter there until the rain lightened up, then finished the boulder area and back to the main trail, then I was Base Camp Free!
Soaked again, this time I had covered the fire pit with some plastic bag I had found, so it was dry and ready to go! I started the fire up and for the second night in a row, huddled by it, drying my socks and shoes while warming my hands and feet. I stayed by it for an hour or so while the sun set. Tomorrow I'd descend the Mountain, hop back on LionHeart, and begin riding back to Crestone. I let the Fire die down, scattered and covered the ashes, and grabbed the few rocks that I'd placed in it. I buried them at my feet and fell asleep, happy to have survived, pretty sure it was the right move turning around, but as is often the case with me, despite what I had accomplished, still feeling rather discontent. I Failed to reach the Top of Little Bear.
I was able to retrieve my camera!
A top of Mountain selfie proved it was mine lol
Now that I'm back in Crestone
I have the opportunity to check out some more of the many Spiritual Centers here that I missed before!
This Ashram is actually what led me to the town
John, whom I'd worked in the fields with at New Talavana, told me to go to Crestone months ago to visit it
This building is an EarthShip!
The windows are arranged to capture heat during the day
Their garden is a lot more organized and clear than others I've worked in
They have a Beautiful Temple here too
But to see it you'll Just have to go visit it yourself
Shumei International Institue
I was especially excited to check this place out
for my Love and Study of Japanese Culture
Lonesome Road
Art by Nick Keefer
I found Scaredy Squirrel!
This is one of my most favorite Children's Books
WonderBob's Dancers for Universal Peace!
This respite of Love and Hope and Peace was Just what I Needed
As people arrived we all slowly met each other
Everyone contributed what food they brought which allowed folks (such as myself) to cook up many great dishes
(Which was awesome because I hadn't eaten a heartening meal in like a week)
It was a Wonderful event
I had heard some of the volunteers didn't show up so there was work to be done
So I showed up ready to help!
I stayed after to help break down/clean up too (:
Crestone is a really special town
That's why I want to spend a little more time here
"As long as I'm goin' Home for Christmas,
then I've got Everything I Need."
There are so many Hummingbirds around here
Their unique sound as they zip by your head is startling but pleasant
In lieu of paid Work
I've got some other Goals to Reach...
I Just wasn't satisfied with failing to climb Little Bear
Reasons or Excuses don't matter
I remembered I had begun climbing the Needle but turned around because it looked too dangerous
And I didn't feel good about not trying there either
(Though each time it would have been very dangerous to continue)
So I left my gear at WonderBob's
Packed a backpack...
...And set off into the Mountains!
The same trail as before
CottonWood Creek
This time I made my base camp in this amazing Cave I found!
Getting in and out of the Cave was a little troublesome
But definitely totally worth it to sleep in a Cave!
I also didn't need to worry about storms wrecking my camp!
There was another opening but plenty of ceiling to protect me and my gear
Remnants of a fire along with a pile of dry wood saved me some work
Then I collected heaps of soil and lightly packed it down to create a semi-soft bedding
Then my tarp and the extra clothes I had and my sleeping bag atop
With my fire pit right next to this arrangement
I'd be sleeping pretty comfortably!
I heated these rocks and buried them by my feet
Then a thin layer of dirt and viola!
Warm Feet <3
I wasn't in a hurry as the daily goal was to hike up to here and establish a good base camp
In the morning
After a good night's rest
I'd be...
Setting out for The Needle!
There's
☆ §†ä╔ ☆ ₧εÅK ツ
in the distance.That large rock at the bottom is The Cave!
This Day and Age
Others' actions and our interpretations of them
Our own Work and The Lord's
As I—ME—Share My Story with my fellows of these lands through my travels
I am so often given the same advice
Give Up.
Ride that around in circles forever
We like that
Here have a gift.
Thanks.
But this "Love" of yours
No, it simply won't Do
If We don't it's yours
But either way
Your Love Story is all Broken
You'll have to start over
Head to The City!
Plenty of Fish!
Tinder should work for you there
or maybe buy a gal a drink!
Even if they're not I Don't Care
It's MY Love!
I choose who gets it
This is MY FREE WILL
Than placating my loneliness with a Sister's body at the cost of Her Heart
Why does no one understand that?
I have nothing to show from You.
I couldn't even keep the Water Bottle
So I've No Way to Display Your Care
And Love without Care can hardly be called Love
At least You never seemed to
I got used to being
The dejected alone one
Pushing through another Dark Night
To prove My Love
Yet again
Maybe You Just didn't know how to open Your Heart
It was a cold place You put me
The Beautiful memories we did make
Overshadowed by your unprovoked attacks against me
FreezerBurnt by your complete lack of action to mend and preserve them properly
that You never cared.
I Know You Did.
You always let me in
You always healed me
You always held my hand
Did You not realize
That that always meant The World to me?
And At Last
I Came to You
As Free as the Day I first rode to You
But now finally ready to Be Yours
It was such a shock
A Cold Painful Ache of a Shock
When Suddenly
Your Care
Was no where to be Found
Magic—My Pens were guided by Divinity
Their ink—the Blood seeping from My Heart
Yet still—Despite this thriving current from within me
Like the Neverending flow of the Mountain Creeks
Flowing Flowing Flowing
Nourishing these roots
I have yet to see
The Blooming of Your Care
Lying somewhere between my mistakes
And whatever illusions this World has distracted You With
Or Objectified and Exploited?
Haunted by my Powerlessness to Save You from the latter
Haunted by my Powerlessness to...
If only I knew
Where did Your Care Go?
Where did Your Care Go?
I cannot seem to find it
Even from up here
Where I can see further
Than I ever have before in my entire life
Immersed in Indescribable Beauty
Grown Wise and Resolute
From these Peaks
And what they've told me
No One Plans to Fall
Nothing is Certain
True Value can only be Earned
True Love can only be Given
Truth can only be Lived
So what am I to Do?
But Risk My Life
Climbing these Mountains
In the Hope
That I'll Find Your Care
From Up here some how
Carrying these Dreams
All the Way to the Top
With Faith
That it Will Be Enough
I can see where I've been
But I do not know where I am going
I Strive up these Walls
And I Lift my Pen to Parchment
in an attempt to Write My Story
to at least record where and how I directed My Will at the time
but nay—I cannot foresee what is to come
in any of our lives
What will the ending be
to this Overplayed Opera in My Heart?
The Cardinal Spirits—conducting the score
Does it feel like a play?
An elaborately Orchestrated Game?
Not to ME.
I could Die this Day.
Form mangled to pulp by the Fury of these Ancient Majestic Mighty Mountains
I Will Hold to them Tightly
The Dreams I'm Carrying
Of Sharing This and That
The Reward of Your Love
Keeps Me Asking for Life
I Want to Feel it!
The Giving of these Gifts that I've Won for You.
I Want to Live it!
The Visions of Us that have lit my many Dark Nights.
I Want to See it!
The Beauty of Your Bloom!
I Just Have to Get Down from Here
Without Falling...
And by the looks of The Sky
I've got to hurry...
And by the way...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvGu5nBwBSQ
That's the sub-peak I got to when I tried to climb Mount. Crestone
Lots of Mountain Climbing level-ups since then
So in fear of the oncoming storm I turned my phone off and put it in a ziplock bag. Descending is a lot easier on ones' muscles but a lot more stress on ones' joints. I moved as quickly as I could without risking a fall. When the storm hit, every rock would suddenly become a slippery death hazard. The temperature also drops, and of course giant hail or freezing rain is nothing to scoff at either.. One simply does not want to be at the rocky peak when a storm blows through. Thankfully though, only the fringe of the storm hit. I took cover under an overhand for a minute, but pressed on as the rocks were not so terribly wet.
As I made my way down, I somehow missed a turn out of the gully I was trekking in. This was fortuitous as I came upon an epic find! A wooden cane, smoothed at the top with a perfect handhold! I had found the metal trekking pole at the Crestone Free Box, which was just what I needed. The metal poles are usually adjustable and have a comfortable rubber handle and a nice wrist strap, which is great when you need both hands free, one can just let it hang there. However, I like to hold the pole from the very top, and the rubber handle isn't conducive for that. The wooden cane I found however had the perfect top for my preferred grip! I traded my metal pole and named my new find The Needle Cane! Then continued downward, off the trail.
I then came to a descent that appeared exceptionally difficult. The rock wall to the left wasn't straight vertical, but it was so smooth it may have well been. Any footholds that could be seen were barely big enough for a toe. This smooth face extended about fourteen feet from the unstable lower level to a platform above, where I sat surveying the challenge. To the right of the platform, another rock wall, but this face suddenly cutting away as the platform ends, both vertically and horizontally. So while the left was a smooth solid wall, to the right was nothing to grasp at all, though one could go underneath, as a cave of sorts extended a great deal back. As the lower level ground closed to the platform it elevated, and further back in the cave one could see, the lower level rose to but four feet lower than the platform.
One could imagine somehow lowering onto there to safely descend, but this was at least three feet within the cave, so that too would prove difficult. In fact, to descend seemed impossible without gear, save that someone had left a rope installed atop the platform. The rope only extended to the edge of the platform, but I could image holding onto that rope firmly with one hand and lowering myself as far as possible down the smooth wall, then perhaps scaling the rest. Footholds would need to be found once I lowered myself down there.
I couldn't think of a use for my new Needle Cane, but I was so sure I could descend here, I wagered my cane by tossing it down below. I wrapped the end of the rope around my left hand in such a way so that my weight upon it held it to me and then began lowering myself slowly. Tiny footholds were few and far between, difficult to find, and even more difficult to balance upon. It became apparent that the wall was too smooth to scale, and the lower level still an injury for a fall away. As I hung there, knowing the only reason I wasn't falling to a broken something was for the rope, and my limbs slowly began to feel fatigued, a slow panic set it...
wtf do I do now?
The only hope was to move towards the cave and try to diminish my fall by getting to the higher ground there. I found three bits of rock to sort of balance on as I leaned that direction, then without any semblance of a plan, I began loosening my self from the rope...
Once my hand was freed, I knew I was practically Just floating there above a nasty fall. Each foot was somehow supporting me with probably less than an inch of surface area each. The Wonder Boots really came through in this moment—when it counted—thanks WonderBob! I had three fingers loosely but desperately holding to another smooth bit of rock sort of jutting our, and thanks to the wall being not completely vertical, I could lean against it and not fall. In this barely balanced position, I slowly brought my now free arm down and to my left in some not-thought-out hope that I'd find Just the hand hold I would need to save myself with.
There was nothing.
Nothing except another momentary panic as I knew in maybe a minute once the slightest bit of muscle fatigue set it I'd immediately loose what balance I had, slip, and fall. But then I thought of something. A controlled Jump down would be safer than slipping, and with my arm now by my chest, I could push myself off the rock face toward the cave and at least take a foot or two away from the fall. There wasn't much time to think about it. I visualized it once or twice, resolved and... Hup!!
The rocks on the ground weren't stable or level, but luckily thanks to the incline, and from the amount I lowered myself hanging from the rope, I only fell about four feet. Where my right foot landed the rock rolled which rolled my ankle. Ouch. I wobbled and fell back as I winced from the pain—but it wasn't so bad. I knew I could definitely walk, and hey! I did it! I made it down without dying or (seriously) injuring myself! Cottonwood Lake was in view and it was Just a few more far less challenging rock climbs down followed by a grassy slope to get to it.
I rubbed my ankle a bit more then stood to go. I couldn't rest long as the race with the sun back to camp had begun. As I approached the next ledge, I retrieved The Needle Cane.
I'd need it.
I hadn't planned on taking my phone out of its baggie or turning it back on
But this fren let me get soooooo close I could almost pet him!
DeJaVu Racing the Sun through the Bush Labyrinth
This time limping on a sore ankle
Luckily I had far less distance to travel
Reached the cave Just as darkness settled in
I brought some cardboard into the mountains with me to get the fire started easily
The Fire warmed the rocks around me but The Cave was open and ventilated enough that smoke wasn't a problem so long as I was laid down
Tuesday, August 7th
I had planned to climb Mount Crestone today, but the Crestone Needle really took it out of me. My legs are all wonderfully sore. I'd probably have gone for it anyways but that rough landing injured my right ankle. Hiking our would be a challenge—up the mountain is out of the question. I only have about seven-hundred calories worth of food left.
Three small apples from Mataji Rosalyn.
Maybe fourish tablespoons of Sunflower Seed butter from Sister Sara.
And the Oats of Enlightenment! From Sister Amber.
So I'm experimenting with my new found fasting ability. Aside from an experimental nibble of a mushroom and four mysterious black berries—I have not eaten today. I'll probably take tomorrow as another Day of Rest, Writing, and quiet contemplation (I also gathered fire wood, improved my bed, prepared a pyre for the evening, and dug a hole for later).
Unfortunately there are many flies—they don't even bite, but they buzz around unendingly and it kind of drives me crazy. Distracts me from writing and meditating at least. Otherwise, I've no complaints. It is absolutely gorgeous here (Kirei desune!) I'm lucky to be able to spend this time up here in the Mountains—Just living in a Cave. It's pretty Awesome. I'll eat the last of my food when I try to climb Mount. Crestone. Probably on Thursday—hopefully the weather will be nice. Friday I'll move my camp down the mountain a bit—another day of no eating, as will be tomorrow—so that on Saturday I can leave the mountains in the morning, retrieve my stuff at WonderBob's, and make it to the Little Shepard meal. They always have plenty of food—and that'll be nice after mountains and days without. Hmm, or maybe I should hike the mountain on Friday? Well, that depends more on how my ankle feels on Thursday and the weather in the morning. Been pretty clear so far but I'm in this awesome Cave anyways with lots of dry wood so I'm all set!
Wednesday, August 8th
Woke up to a fren at the top entrance of the Cave. A Mountain Beaver! Climbed to the top of the rock (pee'd along the way) and began writing. I've been peeing all around the entrances to mark my dwelling in case any varmints come. Might turn 'em around (there are Bears and Mountain Lions up here y'know!)
Feeling some discomfort from hunger. It'll pass, and/or I'll deal with it. I'm glad I'm taking this time to work on my self and grow Stronger. One way to Define Strength—Our Ability to Do The Right thing/Accomplish the Mission/what Need Be Done/Reach Our Goals without succumbing to temptations, Giving Up, Hurting nor Taking from others, or otherwise acting Crudely, Wrongly, or UnJustly, All while carrying the Weight we must Carry and managing the energy flowing through us. That energy includes positive and negative forces, Pain, Hope and Despair, the entire spectrum of our emotions, Desires, frustrations, and every thing external that may be sent our way and thrust upon us.
So yeah, alone in the Mountains, otherwise out of food save for my rationing to at least attempt another summit before I retreat to town. This is a Great Exercise and Experiment!
Today I plan to Write and Meditate, take photos, build another pyre for the evening, Art Up the Needle Cane a bit, maybe explore the area (must rest legs and ankle), and try to craft some sort of pipe to smoke the bit of ganja I got at the Top of the Crestone Needle—Yup, Best Ganja! Hmm, or I could Save it! Oh SNAP! I think that's what I'll Do. That's powerful stuff. I'd rather share it with someone special. Now I Wish I grabbed a little bit more haha. It'll still be cool to try to craft a pipe though.
I'm learning about my Body this way too. My muscles are definitely taking longer to recover without protein in my system. I Want to know my limits and abilities. The only way to find those, and to improve them, is to push myself to that point. I guess Blanca was a greater challenge, or at least Little Bear was, but this is tough enough, and the next mountain peak looms overhead!
The Writing is my favorite part I think. Maybe I'll try starting a short fiction...
Though no one passed by for days...
But exploring the area was a Joy
So I took some samples to take back with me and dry
And Just experiment with the restsssssss
The sound of this waterfall could be heard continuously from The Cave
So I decided to go check it out!
Behold!
The Needle Cane!
These look kind of good...
...but I've already nibbled other mushrooms
So if I nibble these and feel ill I won't know which one made me have that reaction
We must be scientific if we wish to learn!
So these guys are on the "maybe" list
I spit it out and washed my mouth out
I could be wrong but they're on my "No." list
I took all these mushroom pics to identify what I found
☆ §†ä╔ ☆ ₧εÅK ツ
Legendary Artifact - Equipment
Equip (3) ((3): Attach to target creature you control. Equip only as a sorcery.)
Equipped creature gets +1/+0 and has mountainwalk and
" (3)(Tap): Create a suspended spell token removed from the game with two time counters on it. Remove a time counter during your upkeep. When the last is removed, Star Needle deals 11 damage to target creature and create a colorless Shooting Star artifact token. This damage can not be prevented. "
and
" Unattach Star Needle: Tap target permanent "
First, get the driest sticks you can find.
Not log sized but they can be a little thick.
Stick 'em in the ground so they're standing upright.
I use four here to make a square.
Then in the middle of them all on the ground, lay some smaller dry sticks down
Then atop those, lay a bedding of dry twigs.
Dry Dry Dry!!!
If the dry sticks you stuck into the ground have some branches to lay these on that'll make it easy
It doesn't have to be super stable or anything
But it can't be falling over
(For this pyre I also have a log floating above as a third level, which works but not necessary)
Tinder is tiny bits of whatever that burn real easy
So super super dry wood, ripped pieces of cardboard/paper, dry pine needles/leaves/moss, stuff like that. Anything that's really flammable and going to light right up. Put a clump of that here.
Make sure there are two openings so that air can flow through.
Heat rises.
So we light some more tinder aflame and place it into that space.
Use that burning tinder to light some more tinder as you carefully and slowly place more inside
You shouldn't have to put too much in though as that burning tinder will begin to heat the entire structure of kindling you've just built
But especially, the second layer of kindling and tinder we've made above the space
As it begins to burn, gently blow into the space to keep oxygen moving through so that the smoke being produced doesn't snuff out your growing fire
Once that second layer is burning...
Keep putting tinder and tiny kindling into the flames to grow the fire
The second layer will soon collapse
Which will light the bedding on the ground ablaze as you continue to gently stoke the flames
Just keep putting dry stuff in.
The goal is to get as much embers as possible
Start putting larger and larger kindling sticks into the fire until you can add fuel logs.
Keep burning dry stuff and the embers on the floor will pile up and retain their heat. They should get hot enough that you can ignite kindling just by placing them atop the embers, which you should do when you place a new fuel log in, to help get it hot and combusting.
A Fire can be the difference between Life and Death
So it's good to be prepared (gather wood beforehand and put it in a place it will remain dry) and know how to make one.
A really Great Day.
I woke before Dawn to Overcast Skies, "Uh-Oh!"
And I hit the Snooze button (y'know, the internal one).
And I hit the Snooze button (y'know, the internal one).
As I lay partially awake I worried about those Gray skies—if it stormed then I'd have to wait another day—and that'd also mean no breakfast, which I was really looking forward to.
I Snoozed.
Then started thinking what if I wait and it storms tomorrow?
Just then, a friendly wake up call came from Rudy! Her
high-pitched cheep echoing through the cave. That told me the right
move to make. It took a couple cheeps to Justle me (I am not a morning
person) but soon I was sitting up, making a pyre for later so it'd be
ready Just in case I really needed it, and having some amazing apples
with a custom mixture of special Sunflower Seed butter.
I got up and packed for the hike. One apple left, and the pack of The Oats of Enlightenment! This paper here! Along with The Prosperity Journal
and these two pens. Tp and sanitizer and neosporion Just in case. And
the Love Crunch bag from Sara, a beautiful mother I met, which
previously held very special granola but now would be used to collect
and carry treasure! Cool Rocks I find and keep from the Mountain. There
are Cool Rocks everywhere up here, so I limit how many I take to the
number of varmints I slay (flies, mosquitoes, etcetera). It's the item
they drop after the battle—get it!? We had five for Needle and eight for Crestone. I like to find them along the way—especially off-trail—and
carry them to the top. Anyways, I put everything in water proof bags
and slid them into the small back pouch of my camelback (oh yeah and
phone in pocket—for photos) and headed out!
The Cave I camped in is right underneath two towering ridges.
Cottonwood Creek flows between them, and right by the Cave. Following
that to Cottonwood Lake is how one climbs the Needle. One can also Just
climb this ridge to the North and climb the Needle that way. I learned
that accidentally when I tried to climb Mount Crestone before, so this
was my second attempt. Knowing I needed to go around this ridge, I
headed off-trail West, following and navigating its base.
Right near the Cave I found some wild raspberry bushes (Oh how I Love these—they
remind me of childhood and home) and a thick vein of Quartz! I left it
all for later. The terrain wasn't too difficult at first—some
undead treants to battle, and the slope was a bit steep, but that was
it. I found some more wild raspberry bushes (these I chose to enjoy) and
took some great photos of some flowers and the sunrise and the
landscape. I Love taking the panorama shots. They go so well on the
blog, and everywhere is so Beautiful here it's hard not to turn any
given show into a panorama. Panorama shot into Flower Pattern into
Fore-Background. Loved that one (; Photography is so much fun! So is my
blog, honestly.
I looked up some maps and pics of the trail to climb the Needle
But for this peak
It's all my own scouting
(And the information gleaned from the large scale topographical maps too)
Definitely my favorite peak 'round these parts <3
Just figuring out which path to take
Uphill or down
Scale this rock wall or seek an alternate path
Oh! What's that over there!
Climbing over or under or Breaking Through Obstacles
Hey a hidden path!
It's pretty difficult
But it's so damn fun
It's like a GIANT NATURE PLAYGROUND
If You Don't Accept Love?
"Yo that looks steep AF"
I Miss You Brother.
The landscape slowly changed to rockier, steeper, more grassy
"hill"sides. Lots of up and down as I navigated around vertical rock
races. In general I don't want to backtrack, but I will if an attempt to
climb/descend will probably cost me my life. If there's handholds
though—that
is, if I think I can do it, then I'll give it a go! How else will I
improve at rock climbing? Ascending the long grassy hills was difficult
too as they were very steep. The grass though was very thick and strong
rooted, so I would grab it to help pull myself up. This continued for a
couple miles (and more great pictures!) until I was tired of the ridge
and decided to climb to the top to see where I was at.
I can see a solid looking trail up to ☆ §†ä╔ ☆ ₧εÅK ツ
Well there's a cool exploratory hike to save for later <3
This white flower had a nice semi-sweet flavor to it
I took a handful with me to dry
I bet it'll make a splendid (and magical) tea (:
A small Cave!
Not somewhere where I'd really want to spend the night
But good to note
Just in case one had to seek shelter.
Could save your life!
is by definition Temporary and thus Consumptionary.
I Do Not Want to Consume My Sisters.
Not climb to the top of it
But I was still trying to go down as little as possible
But if I had to I had to!
I Want to
Need to
Hold Sexuality
The Act of Sex
And Just that entire Sphere of Human Existence
Elevated
Held Above
Sacred
So I DO NOT WANT Sex if it's
Terrible
Not Beautiful
Without Love
I only Want Sex if I Love the person I'm Loving
Otherwise it's not Loving
It's something else
And I Do Not Want to Do That.
Upon cresting the ridge, I came to see another valley! I didn't even
know that valley was there! As I knew, this ridge connected to the
Needle. Across the valley stood another (taller) ridge that also
connected to the Needle! Okay, but where was Mount Crestone? I figured
then would be a good apple break as I surveyed the land and figured the
best route over. I remembered seeing Mount Crestone due West from the
top of the Needle, so I knew I had to climb that other ridge, which
meant descending down into this valley I didn't know about. I left my
offering for the Mountain, put my camelback back on my back, and began
descending in a nearby gully.
It was impossible to tell if the gully was descendible or not from the top—but
there was only one way to find out! It turned out to be pretty
difficult with loose rocks and some "technical" faces. I put my newly
named Star Needle between my back and camelback so I could free my hand
to grasp Rock, but not lose it down the steep decline.
I made it to the valley without a problem and found my way across it.
There was no lake in this one, but underground water ways joined
together to form another beautiful (but apparently nameless?)
everflowing creek. I hopped over that and began the route I chose up the
other side. I had wisely (I used that old telescope to confirm passable
terrain! So Cool!) The route was steep but the terrain was easy. There
even seemed to be a trail! It was a long climb, but I eventually made it
to the top of the ridge to see...
Ta~Da!
On the other side!
Sorry, turned my phone off for this valley to save battery life
Mount Crestone! At last! It is Massive. After my initial astonishment, I looked around to see another
valley in front of me (that I didn't know about). From what I could
see, one could reach the peak two ways, from the North or South. From
the South, I would have to descend into the valley, descend the valley
to an ascendable point, then hike up to the Southern ridge, and attempt
the peak from there. Or, from the North, I would follow the ridge I was
on towards the Needle, strafe around the Needle's Peak (which I didn't
even know if possible, the taller ridges blocking my view), a passable
looking dip and climb to the Northern ridge, and attempt the peak from
there. I decided another descent and ascent was not conducive at all for
my energy levels. I was going on about 700 calories for the last three
days, body recovering from the Needle, and I had basically already
climbed a mountain where I was standing (I seemed about level with ☆ §†ä╔ ☆ ₧εÅK ツ, and could even see §†ä╔ еÑæ beyond). So I opted to follow the ridge and scope out that path.
In order to see if I can even get there though I've gotta climb to the top of that ridge.
Another sub-peak of the Needle
This ridge wasn't too difficult, the long grassy slope being an option
when the rocks were perilous. I hiked over to the tallest ridge before
the ascent to the Needle peak (this ascent being damn near suicide to
try) and took out my telescope. From what I could see, though
exceptionally difficult, it seemed possible to strafe around the Needle
and get to the Crestone North ridge. But as I surveyed, worrisome Dark
Clouds appeared over the Needle, moving straight towards me. Undaunted, I
set forth, but then noticed the time...
Though they're definitely not good news...
(If it got really bad I'd find an overhang and take shelter and wait for it to pass)
It was about four o'clock. It had taken me all morning (I set out at
8am!) to hike around the first ridge, and all afternoon going down and
up again to the ridges I was currently on. Having barely eaten
definitely slowed my pace down significantly. I was still going—I
basically have a very stable and efficient low-energy level operation
mode (climbing mountains lol) so I wasn't tired, but I definitely was
not at full power at any point in the day. Surveying the land ahead
carefully, Judging the distance and difficult (and that I only had the
150 calories from the Oats of Enlightenment for energy—saving
them for the way down) I estimated I would not reach the peak for about
four-five hours. So I'd be at the summit at 9pm. Not a good plan if I
also planned on continuing Living. I didn't want to give up, but Just
like the first time, I had climbed the wrong climb. So with some regret,
I had to call the retreat.
Can you say..?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvGu5nBwBSQ
Happy I made it this far
Disappointed I didn't reach my goal
I suppose that often in life
We must find satisfaction with what we do accomplish
And be humble with that
But there is also energy in striving forward
Trying again
Never Giving Up nor Accepting Defeat
I guess it really depends on
What You Stand to Gain
What You've Got to Lose...
Not all my hope was lost though. There was a long not so steep looking
grassy slope the other direction down the ridge. I had almost climbed
it, but it was seemingly backtracking, so I didn't. I couldn't see from
where I was but I hypothesized the other side would also be fairly easy
to navigate. If so, it'd be the perfect pass over this ridge for the
Southern route, or traverse through the valley, climbing at its top, to
bring oneself to the ridge for the Northern route to the peak. So as I
did for ☆ §†ä╔ ☆ ₧εÅK ツ,
I decided to turn this failed ascent into a successful scouting mission
by returning to camp via that long grassy hill. By doing so I would
confirm the difficulty of the other side of it, and also how to most
efficiently access the start of the hill. Perfect!
If I want to just climb up and down rocks all day I can do that literally anywhere up here
But if my goal is to reach the peak (and descend to a safe enough place) before sun down
Any route that'll save me time is the one I need to take
There is a place here in Crestone called "The Stupa of Enlightenment"
It is said that if you walk around it three times you will become Enlightened
Well there's an easy path to Enlightenment haha!
I walked around it thrice with these Oats in my pocket.
There are many aspects to Enlightenment
But one of them is most certainly
Valuing and Appreciating where things come from
And their meaning to You in Your Journey through Life
The other side is pretty easy terrain!
The same one I passed down and up through before that I didn't know about
Then follow the valley back to the main trail
And I'll know the best route to get back to this spot!
Another aspect of Enlightenment
Care.
I always laugh when I meet a self-proclaimed "guru" or "Enlightened Master" or what-have-you
But they don't look twice at someone in Need of aid
Helping each other
Building a Strong community
Coming together as one Human Family
That is the only thing that's going to save us.
Now to descend into the Pine Trees...
At this point though I had to turn off the camera as it was almost outta batteries.
I continued downward, coming to the unnamed creek and following it as it winded through the pines. For a while it was easy hiking, but eventually the brush increased so much that every step required careful thought. It didn't help that the sun set either, so as I came upon the most difficult area to traverse yet (not including the scaling of rock walls) it soon became pitch dark. A light storm rolled in too, which also didn't help my situation. Luckily I found another perfect walking stick, perfect for my left hand, which I named Explorer and planned to give to Mataji Sweet Thunder, once I escaped the Mountains and saw her back in town.
By the time I made it back to the main trail I was all scrapped up from branches and starting to feel pretty exhausted. The storm that had been drizzling on me must have just been the sides of a fiercer center, as the main trail had obviously been hit hard, with soaked bushes drooping onto the path and many felled branches and some trees now obscuring the way. I had about two-three miles of uphill night hiking to go, which was made more difficult but these new wet obstacles. Luckily, I've hiked this Cottonwood Creek trail a few times now and have been learning it pretty well, so that helped me not get lost, though there were a few times I walked off it and had to backtrack a tad to the last cairn. Storms circled overhead as I made my way back to the Cave. Lightning would occasionally strike, filling the sky with light and showing me the trail for a brief moment. A few times I had just mistakenly stepped off trail, and the lightning told me, showed me, to turn back.
"Thanks..." I'd huff out. After a mile or so of this I was exhausted. Luckily I had discerned that the little white puffball mushrooms were edible and there were a bunch of them all along the trail! They gave me the slightest energy boost, but more importantly the morale boost I needed to push through the stormy night (not that I had any other choice anyways). Aside from stopping to eat just about every one of these mushrooms I saw, I only took a break once, atop a rocky overlooking which could see all the way down the trail to the town and valley beyond. Watching the Lightning Storm from there is a spectacle that makes the struggle all worth it.
For me at least.
After a fairly arduous hike, I made it back to the Cave, soaked from the constant drizzle and wet leaves and branches I had to push through. I lit my ready-to-go pyre and passed out quite promptly in my sleeping bag.
The next morning I decided it was time to retreat from the Mountains. I climbed to the top of the Cave one more time and wrote most of what you just read, then packed my gear to go.
So before I left I made one more pyre
And left some tinder and my lighter behind
Just in case someone hobbles into this cave one day
Cold and Wet
And isn't quite prepared
One has to fight through the brush for at least a half mile
But after a secret waterfall and scaling some rocks to the top...
It's an enjoyable and pretty easy hike to that rocky slope
Which leads up to the grassy path
To the Crestone Peak...
LionHeart patiently awaited me
Thank You Water Naga
After the Mountain
I retrieved my gear from WonderBob
(Thanks WonderBob!)
And made my way back to this place I Love
After a Battle
It's good to have a safe place to rest and heal
That's one of the hardest parts about traveling
Going out into the unknown
Battles and Trials and Long Dark Wet Lonely Nights await
And you never know where you're going to land
But You've gotta have Faith!
Faith in Yourself that you can make it!
You can get to where you're going
That you will not give up no matter what
And Faith in The Above
The Universe
The Lord
God Jesus Krsna Jehova Allah
Whatever name
Sounds from our lungs
That you feel is best to speak
Faith needs not a Name
Faith Rests in Your Heart
And if you Have it You can Fly
Thanks Zayden for creating this Art with me to show Mataji Sweet Thunder!
Diggin' in the Dirt!
I found this.
then I've got Everything I Need."
We're not quite done here.
Not Yet.
