17, 31, and 5.10

These may all seem like random numbers, but each held their significance this weekend.

From my hometown in Pleasant Grove Utah, I can drive 4 hours in any direction and still not break past the Utah border.  This weekend we embarked on an adventure in which a 4 hour drive took us from Connecticut, through Massachusetts and Vermont, to New Hampshire.  The fall leaves have progressed in each of these states more than they have here in New Haven making for a very beautiful drive.  After arriving in New Hampshire, I did the math and learned that I have now been to 17 states.  Prior to 2011, I had traveled to 5.  I am enjoying the opportunity to see new places and meet new people.

So, what took us to New Hampshire you ask?  Rock Climbing.  We headed to one of the premier rock climbing meccas in the North East (Rumney, NH) for the opportunity at one last climbing fling before our family expands in December and impulsive road trips with friends become a little more difficult.  I am proud to say that at 31 weeks pregnant (7 months) I can still climb 5.10's.  Those 2 numbers might not mean anything to those of you who have never been pregnant, or who aren't familiar with climbing ratings and that's ok.  I'm tickled at what those numbers mean to me.  Take a look at some of our pictures and you'll see climbing pictures of the 3 of us: Michael, baby, and me; as well as pics of the landscape and rustic cabin in which we stayed for the weekend.

Michael climbed up to the top and then took pictures of "us" as "we" worked our way to the top

Me and the baby working our way up!

Me and the baby working our way up!

Me and the baby working our way up!

Me and the baby working our way up!

The view from atop

The view from atop

Michael continues to climb well, despite the amount of time he has to spend studying!

...Not to mention the rock and leaves are beautiful!

My favorite climb of the weekend.  Steep with big moves but good holds.

Same climb

Same climb

Same climb

Same climb

Same climb...not to mention the gorgeous leaves in the background

Same climb

Michael climbs 5.11b

For someone who spends most of his time studying these days, he still looks really strong!

How does he stay so strong hitting the books all the time?!

This was an extremely technical move.  I was so proud of him.

He makes rock climbing look so graceful

It rained Saturday afternoon which cast a beautiful haze on the valley

Waiting out the rain

Waiting out the rain

When we weren't climbing we were bundled up at the bottom, cheering on others

beautiful overcast sky

This tree seemed to glow amidst the evergreens Sunday morning during sunrise.

View near our cabin

Our rustic cabin, which is code for no running water, just gas powered electricity and a wood burning stove for heat.  There was a  privy located 50 yards from the cabin (code for outhouse)

This was a difficult climb.  Very different from the style I am used to, but I still had a great time.

Some of the other members of our group.  Jeff attends the SOM (school of management) with Michael.  Leah also attends Yale, but is getting a master's degree from a different program.

So there you have it: I have now been to 17 states.  I am 31 weeks pregnant.  And I can still climb 5.10.  It was a great weekend, although it was a harsh reality for Michael to have to start a new block today and know that these weekend trips will become more difficult.  But we look forward to the next trip...which may be our Utah trip!  We look forward to seeing you all soon.  XOXO