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Cueva Fiesta 2006 Mike Gordon The cavort hosted by TBAG went as expected. The camping area was canopied by oaks while the bonfire stood ready to be lit in the open field. We arrived just before dark and were able to find a place between the Kettles and Jay and Susan Landt to pitch our tent. A small Friday night fire was encircled with shadowy figures vaguely familiar to me as I enjoyed the night stars and idle chatter of our friends. After enjoying a few oysters courtesy of Tom Farnell, it was soon time to turn in. After a chilly night's sleep, it was time to start making plans to see a cave. The Landt's and the Brintons wanted to go to "Dog Drop" and collect some points at some other locations and invited us to come along. Shortly there after, Brian also extended an invite to us to join his group on their excursion. In my opinion it's the more experienced cavers who extend themselves to those willing to learn like myself that make the caving community caver friendly. Thanks Brian, next time. As final preparations were made Adam joined our group, bringing our number to seven. Three vehicles headed out. Jay, Susan, Danny and Annette took the lead followed by Adam. Kitty and I managed to keep up in her lighter vehicle through the sugar sand. Our location of interest was the WSF. We planned on getting the coordinates to "Blowing Hole" and "Jackpot" before moving on to "Dog Drop". It was a nice hike. We have been on a number of outings with Danny and Annette and have always enjoyed their company. Jay and Susan are a wealth of knowledge and Kitty and i looked forward to spending time with them since working together on the training class. Jay gave us a first hand account of when "Dog Drop" was entered and subsequently mapped and surveyed. Adam pointed out vegetation of medicinal value along the way in an easy yet confident way. There was a lot to be learned from each of my friends and I took a little knowledge from all of them. Once we arrived it took no time at all for the rope to be rigged and gear to be put on. Susan would stay topside due to a recent rib injury while the rest of us dropped in and did our thing. It's a fun little cave and I enjoyed poking around in it as well as getting the chance to use my gear. After leaving the site we headed to "Dames" and "Rat hole". Kitty and I have been through the well traveled caves a number of times so headed back to visit with Susan waiting at the cars. The time went by fast and before long the other four came back from their trip. Hungry and not wanting to miss the raffle we called it a day and headed back to camp. A Spanish meal was served and it was great. We sat with friends and listened to some of their trip stories. We were in good company and it helped make the evening meal that much better. I believe the raffle was a success. At least for Danny and Brian. Of course I thought Kitty cornering the market on "Warrens" maps was pretty funny. Wendy, Dave, glad we could fill your wish list with the extras. After the feasting the bonfire was lit and the band started playing. At first i was caught up in the conversation at the fire and was annoyed at trying to be heard over the music. After twenty minutes or so I gave up shouting and started listening to the band's selection. I was surprised at how good they were. I stood for an hour listening between the band and the fire with a few friends who also appreciated the range of the band and the moment. It was for me the culmination of a good time at the cavort. Thanks to TBAG who hosted it and did a good job in making sure everyone was welcome. Thanks to my fellow FSS members who always go out of their way to make us feel welcome. To those that couldn't make it, we missed sharing the experience with you, but look forward to the next opportunity your able to. |