Learning the Ropes by John P. DeGrazio My legs are really burning. I don't remember these cables being so hard the last time. That's because this IS harder. I didn't realize this cable would be so heavy. At least we're both sharing the load. Hey, don't sit there! I'm barely holding … [Read more...]
#72 A Couple of Buckeyes on Half Dome
2 Hikes with 2 Buckeyes by John P. DeGrazio We were all standing on top of Clouds Rest, and Bob leaned over to me to ask "How many miles is it again?" My answer was 17. Of course, we still had about 7 1/2 half miles remaining on our day's hike down from the summit of Clouds Rest, but he was … [Read more...]
#63 On Top of Half Dome at 70 Years Old
Guiding a 70th Celebration On Top of Half Dome by John P. DeGrazio "What is the age of the oldest person you've ever guided up Half Dome?" I often get this question, and here's the answer I always tell. "Let me tell you a little story about a man named Stanley Kowalczyk." Stanley Kowalczyk … [Read more...]
#33 Half Dome and Baseball
Snowy Field of Dreams By John P. DeGrazio Nothing brings a father and son together like a good game of catch. Sunny days, baseball diamonds, and the smell of leather and fresh cut grass usually conjure up memories of America’s pastime. It’s a special game and one that is passed on from … [Read more...]
#1 A Hundred Half Domes, the Series Begins
You Always Remember Your First Time By John P. DeGrazio It's got to be at least 95 today. I think my sweat is sweating. I need to change this shirt. It stinks. And where did all these people come from? This trail is packed. Making our way down this longer trail was harder than I imagined, … [Read more...]