Wedding information

Dear friends,
We are gathered here today...to give you some information. For those of you joining us in Belize, read below. For those of you not joining us in Belize, skip a little bit lower.

Belize Info and accommodations:

Meghan, James, and immediate family members will be staying at Toucan Lulu near the northern end of the sidewalk in Placencia. This is also where the wedding ceremony will take place. There are many places to stay in Placencia, and anything along the sidewalk will be walking distance (or golf-cart driving distance) to both the ceremony and the reception.

Here is a detailed map of Placencia with a listing of all resorts/hotels/bungalows (click on the map to enlarge it)
Toucan Lulu is #103, for some reason the corresponding dot is not on the map. It is located near #96 and #97. A quick google search of any listed resorts will usually take you to their website, and tripadvisor.com is a great place to check out reviews. You can stay as high end as you want, or find a place for as little as $25 a night if you don't mind creepy-crawly things keeping you company at night ;)

The reception will be held after the ceremony at Yoli's (#26, blue dot) near the south end of the penninsula. There will be food, drink, and live music. It's going to be amazing.

Our post-event reception plans include a gathering in Portland, OR. for friends and family unable to join us down south. There will also be an event for Michigan family members later in the year. Dates to be announced.

Since people have asked, here is a link to our registry. Please remember that it is not necessary to purchase gifts for us. If you wish to purchase a gift, the registry is only a guide and does not need to be followed. Use your imagination, a gift from the heart will mean much more to us than a compulsory present.

We are so glad you are involved in our lives. Our joy is magnified ten fold by the positive energy you have provided throughout our engagement. With friends like you we are sure to succeed in our life together.

California Engagement

California Engagement

It's true! Meghan and I are getting married! Click the photo link above and follow our trip through California. For those that want details of the day James proposed read on:

We decided to go to California after Meg bought tickets to the Dead show in the Bay Area. Since we were driving that far we thought we should make a longer trip of it and see other parts of my home state. Yosemite was put on the list and my wheels started turning, Yosemite IS pretty romantic. Meg doesn't wear a lot of jewelry and I wasn't receiving much in the way of hints. So I took a ring from her jewelry box with us.

I told Meg before we left there was a hike I really wanted to do while we were in Yosemite. No red flags for her, we hike all the time. We got up early that morning and began our hike, but I found myself short of breath early on...it was correlating to the rehearsal I was doing in my head and subsequent increase of heart rate. It was a beautiful day, no clouds in the sky, a perfect trail, and minimal (by Yosemite standards) foot traffic. We stopped in several places to take pictures. And while I wanted to just run up the trail and ask her, I did my best to play it cool.

We got to the top of Yosemite Falls and decided to stop for lunch there. At this point I was in agony and had to make a conscious effort to conceal the inner turmoil. After about half an hour we hiked the final mile to Yosemite Point. On the way down was another hiker and I asked if it was a good day to view Half Dome. He said "you can't really see it from there, it's around the corner". I seized up a little because in pictures I had seen, in planning this whole thing out, Half Dome was supposed to be in the background! As we crested the trail the expansive view revealed itself, the Valley, Sentinel Rock, and Half Dome plain as day! Maybe he was thinking of the other half dome?

This is a great place to take pictures up there so we dawdled a bit. Meg took some pictures of me from above then came down to join me. She asked if I wanted to sit. I said "We have to take care of something else first" and I took her hand and got on my left knee. "Meghan Nicolle Moore, you are the love of my life and always will be. Will you marry me?" "Of course!" she said and grasped around my neck as I knelt and gave me the most loving kiss I have ever known. We got a little misty, and she admitted total surprise.

I had hoped there would be someone else at the Point when we got there so I could have them take pictures of the whole event. However, there was nary a soul other than us for half an hour. It actually worked out best that way, as we had the Yosemite Cathedral all to ourselves to revel in the following moments.

After a few more pictures and dreamy eyes we headed back down the trail. All either of us remember is floating down the steps, passing other people like they were standing still. We didn't have anywhere to be, but couldn't restrain the rush we were feeling. We probably could have hiked that trail five more times that day before it burned off.

The next morning we went to the gift shop in Yosemite Village and found a ring similar to what I now know she is looking for in an engagement ring, old timey with filigree. We will do some more serious shopping in the weeks to come.


What comes next is the wedding. And for this we are going to Belize in February of 2010. All of our friends and family are invited, however, we cannot pay for plane tickets or accomodations for our guests. It will be a simple ceremony, and a lot of vacation fun! Our plan is to hang out with friends and family for a week, then go on our own honeymoon for another week. We certainly don't expect many of you to make it, and we are okay with that. We realize we have made it somewhat inconvenient to attend. If, however, you were thinking of the Yucatan Peninsula for your next vacation, we would love to have you join us!

Thank you all for supporting us in our journey. We are excited and curious and nervous, but most of all, very much in love. So there it is. And here we go! Into a new world full of surprise and safety. Everything we are looking for we have found in one another and can't wait to see what comes next.

Iguazu Falls and Plata Del Mar

Iguazu and Mar Del Plata

Well friends, the time has come to bring this journey to a close. We are safely back in the United States now and have begun our reintegration process. I do appreciate you tuning in to our adventures while Dad and I explored Argentina and Chile. Your feedback was great throughout the process and I look forward to sharing in person some of the great details that do not translate onto a blog (or that I'm too lazy to type out). The diversity of the people we have met, and the places cosmopolitan and natural we have discovered have left our hearts full and our minds spinning with possibilities for the future. Thanks so much for your support while we were out livin' the dream!

This last photo mash-up is of our last 10 days or so on vacation, including the amazing Iguazu Falls, Mar del Plata, and a touch of Buenos Aires to round it out. I've only loaded low-rez video since it is an uploading nightmare to get the good stuff. Enjoy viewing!

Nos vemos, Ciao!

Chile, Chile, Chile

Chile, Chile, Chile

Well, Dad and I have had a great week or so past. We rented a car and tore up the Carretera Austral and Lakes District of Chile. We couldn't be more pleased with all the surprises we found. As I drove Dad would figure out our next stop and always managed to find a killer spot to hike, sleep, or eat. We saw some of the oldest trees on the planet and some of the oldest species of trees on the planet. Not bad, eh?

We are on our way next to Iguazu Falls on the border with Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. While we are sad to let Chile go, we are surely grateful for the unexpected role it has played on our trip. Viva Chile!

Enjoy the photos, and know that we are missing each one of you!

Torres del Paine

Torres del Paine

After reuniting a week and a half ago, I found out Dad had made grand plans for us. Namely the "W" Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. "W" has some negative connotations for us given the last eight years in the United States, but this W gave nothing but good feelings.

We decided to take advantage of the Refugio system the park is famous for. Each day had us hiking 5 to 10 hours to the next hut where showers, food, wine, and bunks were waiting for us! What a way to travel, light packs had us moving swiftly day to day. We couldn´t have been more lucky with the weather as the previous weeks here saw extensive rain. Each turn on the trail provided a new view and encouraged us to linger and soak in the views. After my climbing trip and constant movement it was nicer to enjoy this park at a slower pace.

Dad and I are having a great time and have been reenergized after a bit of time apart. Something any relationship can use from time to time! (Miss you Meg). Next we are on to Punta Arenas to visit Penguins, then on to Chiloe, an unexpected change of plans, but not to be missed apparently.

Love you all.

Fitz Roy and Bariloche and a ton of climbing!

Fitz Roy Range and Bariloche (Frey)

Hey everyone! Finally an update. No blabbing, just pics for now. Make a cup of coffee and enjoy the photos!

mini update, without pics

For those that have been following the blog, thanks for checking in! Dad and I are now traveling independently as I seek "higher ground" here in Patagonia. A climbing guide and I are now in Bariloche after getting rained out in the Fitz Roy range, but not before we bagged a peak in 60mph winds and driving snow! Dad is drinking mate (tea) and getting massages from the locals in Calafate the last I heard, just kidding.

The guide, Juan, and I are now heading into the Frey climbing area outside of San Carlos de Bariloche. Many multipitch climbs in a picturesque cirque. I'm unable to post pictures of any of the last week's travels at this time but be forewarned, when you check in again in a week or so your mind will be blown!

We love and miss you all. Don't forget to send us an email once and a while to remind us what home is like!

Valparais, Santiago, Calafate

Valparaiso, Santiago, Calafate

Hey all! We made it to Patagonia!! We´re having a great time and feel like we are finally where we belong, away from the city!! Enjoy the pics and keep in touch!

Cordoba and Mendoza

Cordoba to Mendoza

We're packing our things and leaving Mendoza for Santiago de Chile. The last week has been my favorite as we've managed to escape the city life a bit and experience what the mountains and country side have to offer. This means climbing and wine, respectively. Please click the album link above and take a tour of this very special place. Love you all!

Buenos Aires and Cordoba

Buenos Aires and Cordoba

Greeting all,

We are now in Cordoba, the heart of Argentina. This city hosts the most cathedrals and universities in the country, many dating back to the 1700s. We had a good time wrapping up our trip in Buenos Aires and are glad to be in a smaller city now. Yesterday we took a day trip to the river and swam. It was the first time out of the hustle and bustle of major metropolitan areas and the air was fresh and clean. A good time for sure.

We're visiting museums today and may go climb in the hills surrounding the city over the weekend. Every day is something new and as we meet people and hear their experiences we determine our next steps. It is very adventurous.

Miss you all, but not so much I'm ready to come back!

Bienvenidos a Buenos Aires

Patagonia

Hello Friends,

My dad and I have had an exciting few days here in Buenos Aires! The day we arrived we explored our neighborhood a little bit, had a late dinner and ended up drinking Quilmes beer until 2 in the morning! It just seemed right. We find our days typically starting around 11 a.m. as the schedule of life is just different here. The warmest part of the day we usually hide out in museums or cathedrals, then back out in the evening to explore the city. Dinner ends up lasting four hours no matter where we go and every bottle of wine has been a gem so far. I don't think you would like it here at all.

Clearly this city is the hub of the country. Much of the culture and ideas associated with Argentina flow through this Port. Highlights of our tour include a trip to the Recoleta Cemetery, where the mausoleums are amazing, a small city of the dead. The bulk of the country's historic dignitaries are buried here including many presidents, generals, revolutionaries, and Eva Peron as well. Last night we went to a Tango show, a tourist event no doubt, but it was amazing! The dancers were true athletes and put on a great show. Unfortunately we couldn't take pictures during the program, guess you'll have to come see for yourself.

This post is brief just to let everyone know we have arrived and are having a great time so far. People here are friendly and helpful when it comes to our pathetic Spanish. English resources are much more limited in the city than we had imagined, but many things are universal and language is a minor barrier when it comes to getting coffee!

Love to you all

James

Three Sisters Marathon 9.18.08 (Buck)

From Three Sisters Marathon

So, you can never really trust a climber when they say their climbing season is over. Really, there's always something that's in condition to climb. Though my boots were stored for the fall and my mind wandering towards the crags, a new opportunity arose in Central Oregon.

Shantanu, a very fit coworker and friend, suggested we attempt the Three Sisters Traverse, that is, climbing the North, Middle, and South Sister peaks in a 24 hour period. Many people up the ante by adding Broken Top and Mt. Bachelor, but we stuck with the traditional 3 peak voyage.

There is no getting around the fact that the Central Oregon Cascade peaks are of poor rock quality. Experiencing no less than 7 types of scree and talus on this journey we were well aware of the rapid deconditioning of these mountains. Nonetheless, adding three peaks into a single climbing effort was something worth trying.

None of these peaks are exciting on their own this time of year, nor do they require any particular technical aptitude. Just the willingness to endure, as we found out when we made it to the car 16 hours after beginning our climb. The views from each provide something worth savoring, though. And the terrain provides enough interest to keep one engaged.

A great challenge, great weather, and a great partner combined to make it a most memorable day.

Forbidden Peak 9.4.08 (Buck)

From Forbidden Peak (Buck)

Well, the closing of a very sweet and successful alpine season culminated in the ascent of a true Cascades Classic. The West Ridge of Forbidden Peak is a great climb that embodies many of the elements that draw climbers from around the world. A great base camp, a straight forward approach, and killer views with a moderate rock route. It's no wonder it's considered one of the 50 Classic climbs of North America.

This Peak, located in the "American Alps", is known for constantly changing weather and variable views. A clear day can rapidly deteriorate into a rain-spitting whiteout. Moving quickly and efficiently is the name of the game.

I met with Rick, a fellow climber from cascadeclimbers.com who was interested in doing the route. A strong climber indeed, our team was not to be denied this day. Despite some late season difficulties with the melted out snow approach, we managed some moss filled gullies that proved the most difficult part of the day. A few hours later a sweet summit experience. Later that evening a beautiful North Cascades sunset, the likes of which few are treated to in this tempestuous micro climate. Enjoy the photos and see you next season!!

Mt. Washington 8/26 (Buck and Pixie)

Mt. Washington

With Meg's newfound penchant for alpine climbing, we decided to attempt another big climb right here in our home state. Mt. Washington has notorious reputation for being loose, crumbly, and downright insecure at times. For some reason though, the Cascades Climber is compelled to climb this peak as a badge of honor and to be able to say "Yes, I have climbed Mt. Chossington".

Our original intent had been to climb up Monday night and sleep on the summit, however, the clear forecast predicted turned out not to be. When we arrived the summit was buried in a deep blanket of clouds along with the rest of the Southern Cascades. The temperature had taken a decided downturn as well and "cold and wet" is never something one aspires to be. We decided we'd hang around Central Oregon for the day and make a summit bid the next day if it was clear.

We took a short hike up Black Butte and soaked up the valley views, a cool perspective above the area. We'd like to go back on a clearer day to see all the peaks that were described on neat placards at the summit. That night we went to Bend and had a few brews at Deschutes Brewery...I highly recommend the Red Chair IPA!

We slept that night in the truck, back on Black Butte, with a clear view of where Mt. Washington should be if the clouds cleared. Sure enough the next morning offered a clear view and our climb was on!

The hiking route provided some interesting twists and turns as we climbed away from Big Lake, even joining the Pacific Crest Trail for about 5 minutes. Then, a steep climb up to the ridge above treeline. From there a loose lava rock traverse led to the base of the summit pinnacle, and the true attraction of the climb. It's always satisfying to finish a climb on rock, don't know why, just is.

The summit pinnacle was the crumbling-detritis-lacking-protection-placements-chosspile that it had been advertised to be. Luckily, the climbing wasn't difficult (though the Mazamas group behind us that took 2 hours on the first pitch might disagree). The views from the top were stellar and the thought of spending a night up there with all the stars and outlines of giant peaks was really appealing. The fact that is was only about 45 degrees in the middle of the afternoon quickly disturbed that poetic notion however.

We rappelled back down to the notch that marks the beginning rock route, and flew down the scree slope to the meadow below and exited via a slightly different route. It was a nice finish through the lush meadow that had only so recently melted out of snow, and so soon would be blanketed again.

A really great adventure, to be sure. Will we climb it again soon? Probably not, maybe not ever. Are we glad we did? A day in the mountains beats a day at work!

Prusik Peak 8.12-15.08 (Buck and Pixie)

Prusik Peak

Back in April Meg and I submitted our request for a much coveted permit in the Enchantment Zone of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. We were granted instead, a permit for the Snow Lakes Zone next door. Not a bad second prize. We ended up in a beautiful camp at Upper Snow Lake. The next day we hiked to the upper bench of the Enchantment Zone to climb Prusik Peak, one that's been on my list for a long time. It met and exceeded all expectations. Great rock and a great position high above the alpine lakes. We couldn't have asked for better weather on this trip. Enjoy the photos!

Mt. Stuart 7.14.08 (Buck)

Mt. Stuart 7.14.08

I've been on an alpine binge lately, so eager to get outside after a winter of training. As soon as I returned from Mt. Jefferson there was an email from Nate asking if I had time for Mt. Stuart this week. The timing was tight so we decided to do a car to car (single push, no camping), leaving bivy gear behind in favor of moving fast and light.

We left Portland at 9:30 pm on Sunday night and got to the trailhead at 2:30am. We began hiking immediately on limited sleep. This turned out to be a bad idea. The next 18 hours proved to be a grueling ordeal, one of the hardest physical feats I've ever endured. This peak is a big undertaking under any circumstances and on an hour's sleep it seemed impossible at times.

Mt. Stuart is a large granitic peak, a true gem for PNW climbers. With steep lines and clean rock it provides a virtual playground for the technical rock climber. Add a four hour approach and a four hour deproach and you have a very long day. The last hike up Long's Pass at hour 17 was a psychological and physical test at it's apex...is it ignoble to stop an hour from the car?...

The NW Face route we chose was not as good as advertised, though it did provide moments of joy. Nate and I agreed, however, that the route did not warrant the great effort of getting to it and then off the mountain. Regardless, it was good to become familiar with this peak, as it's reputation is known worldwide among climbers. Next time, a bivy on route would make this trip a lot more fun. Though it was interesting to realize what the body is capable of when pushed to the limit.

Mt. Jefferson 7.10.08 (Buck)

Mt. Jefferson 7.10.08

Mt. Jefferson, considered by some a "manlier" version of it's northern neighbor Mt. Hood. If manlier means gritty, dangerous, and more of an undertaking to summit then yes, it is a damn manly mountain.

The route we took was the Jefferson Park Glacier. It is easily the most interesting route on the mountain as it combines multiple alpine techniques including glacier travel and technical rock skills.

For this trip I met a new partner, introduced through a mutual friend. Jason turned out to be a great climbing partner as our styles and strengths seemed to compliment one another well. And just ask this guy about Spotted Owls, he'll teach you how to call for 'em if you want to know.

We started the morning on the Jeff Park Glacier, leaving high camp at 3am. By 5 am the sun was rising as we were negotiating the first of two bergschrunds (large crevasse). This led us to steep glacier travel of about 50 degrees up to the col at the top of the JPG. From there we simulclimbed the Knife Edge Ridge (5.1), with laughable exposure, about 2,000ft. drop on each side! Hey, it was laugh or poop, might as well have fun with it. After the technical ridge we continued along the rim until the second arete and then the summit pinnacle. Again we simulclimbed the pinnacle 4th-low 5th class and found ourselves on the summit.

The descent turned out to be the most hair-raising portion of the climb and for details there, I'll refer you to our trip report on cascadeclimbers.com.

http://cascadeclimbers.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=816050

All in all this is easily one of my favorite alpine routes. The diversity and beauty of the mountain keeps one engaged at all times. As for the manly factor, heck yes, there were moments that felt more like a bar fight than a stroll in the hills. As for going back for more, you betcha.

Idaho Sawtooths 6/20-27 (Buck)

After a change in plans due to weather, the boys (Donn, Chad, Nate, and I) decided to head to Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains. Where the weather is always perfect! We had a great week, tagged a few summits, and enjoyed time in a beautiful environment. Some days were big. A nine hour push up Mt. Heyburn and a 12.5 hour day on Finger of Fate. Warbonnet Peak found the four of us in an alpine cirque all to ourselves with a sunset to beat all the evening after our summit. It certainly made our aching feet and hands a little more bearable (the whiskey helped, too).
All in all a fantastic "concession" to our earlier plans, with plenty more to do in the future.
For those unfamiliar, click the picture above to view the photo album. Enjoy!

I love summertime! (Pixie)

It's been yet another beautiful day. Unfortunately I had to work 9-5, and it really cut into my "outside" time. I had the best intentions to get out and at least go to the gym after work, but after busting my butt for the last 8 hours, I ended up just going straight home. I felt guilty.
And then...Lisa called! She wanted to go for a ride. My reaction was "Yeah!" I had 20 minutes to get ready and then I remembered that Lisa doesn't go for leisurely rides. We met behind OMSI and sprinted along the length of the Springwater trail. We were headed for the cemetery just on the west side of Tacoma. It's one of Lisa's favorite spots and my most dreaded. Hills upon hills upon hills, and when I think I've had enough and my stomach is telling me to stop or I'll vomit, there are more hills upon hills. Lisa cranks up them like it's no big thing, and I just want to die.
We came out the back side of the cemetery to Boones Ferry rd to connect with Terwilliger. More rolling hills, loooooooong rolling hills, but more tolerable than heading through the cemetery. To be honest, I was a little sad when I knew the hills were done and it was a breezy downhill coast to my house (though not sad enough to go back and do another lap...).

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

-Meg

A beautiful day for a ride (Pixie)

Springwater Trail to 205

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

With James roaming around Idaho with the boys my schedule has become wider than wide open. With the sun covered with clouds and a nice cool breeze, yesterday was the most fantastic day for a bike ride. It took most of the morning to decide where I was going to go, Portland is not full of car-less riding, but I eventually decided upon the tired ol' Springwater Trail. It's there, it's easy...It's also apparently full of dirty old PGE workers who couldn't resist hollering at a girl in spandex.
Aside from that the ride was amazing! The trail was full of wildflowers and I managed to spot a Blue Heron (or so I think) standing in Johnson Creek. I really wish I had brought my camera along, though it would have seriously impacted the workout.
Unfortunately, the 205 path access points from the Springwater Trail were all closed off, and I had no choice but to turn around and take the same trail home. It's never as fun as exploring.

2 hours and 25 miles later I made it back in time for a much needed nap.