Wow! What a climb!
This team was great to work with and I'm so glad I got to be a part of this climb!
This was, by far, the coldest Mt. Hood climb in my memory, for me. Man it was cold!
The whole team really pulled together and communicated well and supported each other.
It was a real privilege climbing with Shonee and Geoff. I am constantly learning how to be a good teammate and communicator from other leaders. I'm so glad I got to be a part of this team!
Also, a plug for Radios/Rocky Talkies. While NOT required, of course, I am constantly amazed how the presence of these communication devices can increase communication within the team and decrease team uneasiness in situations like dropping a double length rope for climbers to lower on at 10,800 feet or navigating a white-out at 9,500 feet.
Not to mention the added benefit of a leader being able to say something 1 time into the radio and know that both assistants heard the message and know what is going on without that leader needing to repeat themselves.
The radios have become my 11th essential in the woods.
(note to self, turns out, very important that I actually turn ON my radio as well!!!)