Another weekend of perfect fall weather in the Valley, chilly
nights balanced by climbing in shorts.  Chuck Carlson and I
headed for the Cookie.  Chuck led Outer Limits, pitch one, resting
once in the upper crack.  I led the second, still feels more like
10d.  I then led Catchy (10c) and Catchy Corner (11a).  I'd followed
the latter many (well, 3) years ago and had wondered...  Crisp edge,
rough rock, joy.  Sunday at Arch Rock, scene of many previous
debacles.  Some things never change.  Chuck tried Gripper (10b), but
couldn't handle the flared hands over the roof and belayed just
below so I could lead through.  Then over to Anticipation (11b).  I
managed the wild lower stemming ok (10d, I say) and got the rest.
But, for the life of me I couldn't get the move to leave the pod and
had to lower off.  Damn!  On the TR to rescue the gear, I still
couldn't do the move, but got the long lieback reach and the upper finger
crack ok.  This cliff always kicks my butt.

Last week I said to myself - "oh please let the weather hold for just
*one* more Valley weekend before I have to go the Pinnacles."
Of course, it was a lie.