Rock climbing is very nice, but there comes a day that you are ready for mountaineering. Err...that is not really correct. Scaling a peak was in our program. The weather was good, so early in the morning we rose to get over with it.
That's the way I felt about it: let's get over with it. Damn, it is cold, early, and there is no time for a decent breakfast. Let alone to wake up my mind. No, when we started out I was not in a good mood. And yes, I can swear a bit. Can't you see? It's dark! We're supposed to be sleeping in our warm cozy beds! God, I like a bit of fun, but this is pushing it.
So here we go. Recognize the man with the orange backpack? It's me! I usually wear a dark green jacket with blue liner, but it was pretty warm.
Eventually, at mid-day, we reached the top. It gives a really good feeling! Almost made me forget how early I had to rise. Notice how the weather has changed. Instead of sunny it is now slightly clouded around the top. What a pity that I did not take pictures of the descend along the top ridge. Again the weather had changed and there were good views to either side. While descending you could see the Rhone glacier laying hundreds of meters down below. No, you don't want to fall. ...but some people do fall... I was really glad that the belay was secure. The top ridge is a narrow ledge of snow, where the whole group tramples the snow. It's so easy to slide.
We all got down safely. It's was a good day after all. An achievement that needs celebrating with some decent food and a cold beer!