When we arrived at Pawtuckaway State Park it was a comfortable fall day. We set out for a day of tackling a giant rock, that E.J. Gaudet had so enthusiastically told us about days before. We were psyched. I was excited to finally be in a class that accepted all, no matter what. I was pumped as we walked towards the site, not knowing what to expect on the way. I was way ahead of bulk of the class. I couldn't wait to be finally be able to do something for myself, achieve a goal. As we were on our way E.J. puled us over to tell us some really interesting facts about the pond we were overlooking. I wasn't really paying any attention, but I did catch what I believe was the main point he was trying to make.

After the talk, we started back on the trail to find a spot to talk before the rock climb. Mr. Heath and Vinnie Johnson went on ahead and set up the ropes. Meanwhile we all were meditating, hoping we would all achieve our goals on the this day. After we were all clam we started up the "Rock".

We arrived and were instructed on how to tie up our harnesses. We all got a few last minute reminders and were set to climb. Jason L. was the first to go. I was his belayer, and Tom W. was his safety. We got out gear on and he went up the rock like a little monkey. He made it look so easy. At least that is what I thought. Wrong, think again. A few more went up beside Jason on the rock, they were taking their time to plan and strategies for the climb.

Then the time came. I was ready to climb. I chose the middle of three climbs E.J. had taken the time to tell us about. He proudly called it "The Move." I really didn't care what it was called. All I knew was that I had to give this my best shot. So I asked Vinnie Johnson and Sue B. to be my safety crew. I started the climb. It was pretty easy at first. I climbed maybe ten feet without any problem, but then the trouble rose up in front of me. I tried so hard to get past "The Move," but I couldn't. I knew twenty pairs of eyes were on me. Encouragement came from all around. "Good Job Becky," "Try that rock on the left." O.K., I tired all the possibilities I could see. I knew that I wasn't going any farther. I told them to let me down. Even though it wasn't really a big deal not to make it to the top, it still hurt. So I went and let myself vent for awhile. Mrs. McAskill came over to try to comfort me. I knew she was trying to give me a boost, but I was pretty low.

Later on, I decided if I couldn't get up the "Rock" at least I knew that I could get down. So I went to the top and watched Jessie R. repel down the side. I got a few points on repelling, Mr. Heath tied me in and I was down. It was a cinch. When I was coming down, people were waiting to congratulate me.

We all found time to watch and boost people on, giving them a little more faith. Later on, after most us did reach the top, I tried one more time. Even though I didn't succeed, I knew it really didn't matter as long as I tried my hardest which I did. I even found the time to hang upside-down for a moment, what a rush.

On the way back, after we packed up our stuff up we all talked about out achievements that day. We gave each other props and pats on the back, we discussed what we all learned that day. Some learned to make new friends with different types of people. Others learned to trust. What I pulled out of the trip was respect. I received and gave out a lot that day. We hope to enjoy many more trips like this.