Rock climbing!

Erik and I have taken the plunge and have joined a climbing gym in El Cerrito. We were thinking we’d have to go to Ironworks in Berkeley, but they kind of intimidate me, so when we found Bridges I was very excited. We went tonight with Al and stayed about an hour, an hour and a half, trying out some climbing walls (my hands are still stinging) and playing on the slackline. I also did a headstand and some other asanas while I was there because it felt right. Everyone was super nice, and the place wasn’t crowded. They also played a great mix of songs from my teenage years — Dave Matthews Band, Hootie and the Blowfish, Blues Traveler, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sublime — that really evoked the carefree feel of those days for me. Of course I sang along. We felt like the fattest slowest least experienced people there, but we still had fun, and as Al said, “I feel ‘extreme’ just being here.” 🙂

Our membership lasts till the end of August, so we’ll aim for a climbing session at least once a week until then… and they offer yoga classes too, so I’ll give those a try (though I’m a little afraid climbers’ yoga will be too vigorous for me!). I’m thrilled that we have just jumped right into this. I can’t climb worth crap but it’s so much fun to try, and it really builds strength, which I need badly. It’s so good and so exciting sometimes to like something and just go for it!!

And now, potstickers for dinner. What more could I ask?