I've been climbing since 12/02, originally as a result of keeping a promise to a friend in physical rehab. In that time I've progressed from desperately clinging to big plastic holds and whimpering, to earning my AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and Climbing Wall Provider certification, a NYS guide's license for rock, ice, hiking, and camping, and working for a highly-regarded guide service at the Gunks. I also work as a facilitator and trainer for ropes courses, and inspect and build them as well.

I've been climbing ice since the 2004/2005 season; the hook has sunk in deep. Anyone looking to climb some ice, feel free to give me a shout... other hobbies include cooking, bicycling (offroad), reading, watching soccer, playing disc golf, and listening to music of all kinds. I also dabble in percussion with laughable attempts at playing the drums, know way too much about Warner Brothers cartoons, take the occasional incredible picture amongst all the ones I delete, have a weakness for the Horatio Hornblower movies on the A&E channel and all of the Pink Panther movies, and have a nearly-photographic memory - if it's convenient for me.

In response to some PMs - yes, I do have a Hispanic name, and I know its etymology. However, I did not grow up Spanish, and my knowledge of speaking Spanish doesn't extent much beyond "Donde esta el bano?" and "Mas cervecas, por favor!"

IRL, I'm extremely patient, (so I'm told) a very good teacher, and great with kids - and am also (occasionally painfully) honest, usually quite direct, and almost always sarcastic. Some people like me, some people don't. *shrug* I can't make everyone happy all the time! Having an open mind, a thick skin, a fast, sharp wit, and a good sense of humor is highly recommended. Sam Adams Chocolate Bock helps, too.