Pacific Crest Outward Bound School
Alpine Mountaineering

We work our way up fixed lines to the top of Voyager Dome.

Seventh Day: Here is a quick snap shot of me on a fixed line ascent using prusik knots with cordelettes to climb. 

 

Once at the top, we set up camp and gathered for our final night together. This last night was the best group night we had. As dusk settled in, and the day faded away,

we all sat together on top of the dome looking out over a large lake. Together, we all watched the sunset behind a beautiful mountain peak in the distance. We wondered 

what was ahead in our lives.

 

We also had a celebration of our achievement. Our instructors arranged what seemed to be a spontaneous ceremony on top of the dome. 

 

We all sat down in a circle while an instructor lit a few candles in the center of our group. She then placed six PCOBS award pins in front of us and said that these pins

may represent something unique for every one of us. Before we were to take each pin, we were to think about our experience in the last week and describe what the pin might mean. 

 

I explained that this pin would represent a symbol of teamwork and its value. Others shared some very personal thoughts that was a privilege to hear. It was great to listen to some like-hearted people. 

 

To this day, this pin is attached to my pack to remind me of this experience.

 

After we finished up our ceremony, I got into my sleeping bag on a ledge between two rocks. I remember trying to stay awake as I looked up at the stars with a cool breeze on my face. I wanted to make the view last.  I was pretty grateful. 

 

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