On a crowded Saturday morning in the Valley, Pam and Liz fill out YMS disclaimer forms for Rock II/III. Nearby, Christian talks to Jeff "Big Wall" Perrin about the upcoming day. Feeling confident after a successful day on After Six, Christian is ready for more challenge (and exposure). Jeff grins widely, "I have JUST the route for you!". Our fearless leader has chosen Absolutely Free, a remote climb with a gnarly approach that requires major parking karma as well as GPS level route finding abilities.
On approach, bushwacking up an almost vertical cliff, Karl begins to wonder about the definition of 3rd and 4th class. Looking straight down between his toes, Karl spies the next party far below on approach. Good thing they have those red helmets. Rocks and pebbles are bouncing all over as the theme for the day is set. "Rock! Rock! Rock!". Jeff frowns as he realizes that his own helmet is back at the Mountain Shop.
	Finally, we arrive at a beautiful sheltered alcove with sweeping views of Half Dome and the Valley. Looks like we've come up over 200' from the road. We relax and wait as the party ahead of us ropes up and prepares to climb. The morning peace is shattered rudely and abruptly by a noxious miasma that bludgeons our poor noses. Apparently overcome by the recent approach, the party in front of us has elected to make a major organic deposit in our alcove. Gagging, we wait and suffer in silence.
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