much as I feel the horror and misery of those family members who wait for more news of the climbers who left for a difficult climb up Mt Hood, I also have to ask why such  behavior is permitted? The risk to the hundreds of people who have been aiding the search is enormous and yet the focus is on the sometimes irresponsible sport die hards who must leave others to risk their lives but also cause enormous financial costs, money that could be spent on keeping the less fool hardy safe while they exercise ordinary

caution.

I am married to a climber and he admits there is always a danger that rescues may have to occur. But to knowingly advance up the most difficult face of Hood, when record snows and blizzards are approaching is asking for a thrill at many other people's expense:  their families, the rescuers, the tax payers and of course themselves.

If it were my husband up there in the snow wouldn't I want everyone doing everything they could do? yes. But wouldn't I also put my foot down and tell him that there is a limit tp what people do for fun, and blizzard climbing along possible avalanche fields is not the sort of fun he needs right now. How much nicer to have a cozy fire safe at home, talk about safer adventures come warmer weather or maybe a great day at Timberline Lodge or cross country skiing and a picnic at lost lake. Then they can relax  with their loved ones and know that the vital resources spent on a thrill seeker don't have to be spent today.