Cory (pictured left bottom of rock), Amanda and I had been living on the road for some time when we stopped at Joshua Tree National Park. Joel, pictured at the top, became a fast friend of ours when circumstance left him sharing our campsite. Cory hadn't climbed in over a year and was hoping to face anxiety about getting back on the rocks, but we didn't have anyone to lead a climb. Joel (a seasoned guide) took her out, Cory overcame her fear, and we've been thick as thieves ever since.