The new year is the time of year that naturally leads to reflecting on the accomplishments and pitfalls of the past year and goals and hope s for the new year. There is something very exciting about the idea of a new year. The new year brings opportunity for new beginning, new growth, and new experiences. One of my favorite things to think about going into a new year is the ways that I hope to stretch myself whether it be through learning a new skill, leaving my comfort zone, serving more, or trying something new. But, if you are anything like me, two weeks into the new year, those reflections are probably already beginning to fade in the background due to the everyday routine and busyness.  When the opportunity “Froze” to try something new on Sunday, I climbed all over it. North Carolina is not typically known for its ice climbing, but the deep freeze across much of the nation has brought the typical winter wonderland of the North to our backyard! Kent McClure (Timberlake Trip Staff alumni) and I went to the Blue Ridge Parkway and tried our  hands (or should I say “Picks”) at something new… Ice Climbing! Ice climbing requires two Ice axes with picks that you swing into the ice and boots equipped with crampons (10- 12  points that that will grip the ice) a rope and a spirit of adventure. Climbing in this fashion up a 60′ Rock cliff covered in very large icicles is one of the more un-natural things that one could do and I loved every minute of it! Right now while many folks are wishing the winter away, I am hoping it will stick around just a little while longer to provide opportunities for some more winter wonderland adventures!

I wish you well in your adventures this new year!

Ryan