The weather looked promising today (for climbing) and Fi and I arranged to meet at Windgather Rocks, which is north of Buxton. I had a Feldenkrais class from 11-12 which meant we couldn't meet until 1.30pm. After the class I sat and ate my soup (butternut squash and chickpea plus rather too many spices lol) in the car and then set off.

The idea was that I'd get back into leading, as last year I only led 12 routes preferring to second, and there's only one way to feel confident leading, which is to do it. Aaarrgh!

When Fi got out of her car she told me she wasn't carrying her gear up to the crag, it was up to me... and if I didn't want to lead she'd use my gear. Fair enough.

I started on a Diff, which was scary until I began climbing. Next was a HVD which was okay until the top, the crux, where you're in an overhanging chimney... I struggled, I thought I was going to fall, I didn't have the strength**... I  had to drop down, rest and rethink. Fi pointed out a foothold on the side of the chimney so I tried again. Still a bit thrutchy but okay. I was so relieved! When Fi came up she said she wouldn't have like it, well, I didn't!! Photo is of that route, and it turned out its a grade higher. 

I led three more routes, but not strenuous ones and then we called it a day. It was gone 6 and we had an hour's drive to get home. I chose to call at my local Tesco and get provisions for tomorrow when I hope my son will come for dinner, so tonight's meal was very quick!

**Women post menopause lose muscle and therefore strength. Even though I'm quite active I have noticed that I'm not as strong as I was. Post menopause women should increase their protein intake to try to make up the muscle shortfall:-
Observational studies tell us that higher protein intakes are associated with higher lean muscle mass in postmenopausal women. For example, in the Women's Health Initiative study, a higher protein intake (1.2 g per kg of body weight) was associated with a 32% lower risk of frailty and better physical function. 
I think I should probably do some weight training...