Letter from a 2004 6-Day Cascades Student

Dear Andy Clint and Dave,

Sorry for the delay with the letter, but I just wanted to drop each of you a line to say thanks for the great time I had up on Baker.  I was excited about this course ever since my friend proposed the idea to me last year.  I have always loved being outdoors, but spending the majority of my time in PA, I never really had the exposure to real "mountains".  I have always been drawn to articles and books revolving around climbing and finally after all these years I took the all-important "first-step" In what I hope to be many climbs.  As an admitted obsessive/compulsive personality I really took my preparation for this trip very seriously once the decision was made to start.  I read every article and piece of literature that Alpine Ascents sent in the information package as well as the web site at some point in the months before the class.  The information provided extremely informative and thorough reading what to bring and how to prepare.  There was something I read early on in my readings that I think pertained mostly to the physical preparation but which I used a s a common thread in every aspect of my preparation.  I believe it was something to the effect of the degree of enjoyment of the entire experience would hinge strongly on the amount and quality of preparation the individual puts in before the trip.  With that in mind I feel totally satisfied, happy, pleased and anything else I can say that I upheld my end of the bargain.  Using information provided by Alpine Ascents I can't think of any part of my gear, food, physical preparation, or expectations that even had a hint of negativity around them or wishing I had done more.

As for the class itself, its contents and the methods, manners, and demeanor of the three of you I could say nothing more than a perfect 10+ on all fronts.  It was a fantastic experience and surpassed all expectation I had developed during my preparation.  I understand the course to be an introduction to the sport and an exposure to the skills needed to minimize risk and enjoy the settings to the fullest.  My intentions are to continue climbing for many years to come and I will absolutely consider Alpine Ascents my first choice for guiding on any of them as well as possibly attending some of the more advanced climbing courses offered.  I hope to cross paths with all of you in the future and until then wish you the best of luck.  Thanks again.

Rob. B