Look out, Chris Sharma.

I am way, way overdue to post about Nathan's First Climbing Trip. During his Thanksgiving visit to Boulder, we took him to the climbing gym. Given his general athleticism and fearlessness, we all figured he'd take to it, but we weren't sure.

As is his nature, he was tentative at first. He didn't want to put on his harness until he saw his daddy and Aunt Mad do it.

Then he wanted to watch us climb, first. But as soon as we were off the rope, he was eagerly proclaiming, "my turn! I want to do it!" And do it, he did.

Displaying exceptional technical skill, strength, balance, and confidence (particularly for a three-year-old), he worked his way to a good 15 or 20 feet off the ground. He was very focused, and readily (and effectively) applied our suggestions for hand and foot placements.

Showing absolutely no fear, he practiced falling on the rope, then allowed himself to be lowered so he could try again (and again! and again!).

He spent the rest of the weekend boasting of his rock climbing exploits.

Aunt Mad, of course, was kvelling.