My turn, my turn!!
First, points for going up that high on your first climb, big saw, chain for a lanyard, whew! If you like it, follow it up, read and discuss, learn more and have fun & good luck.
For the future:
-Get a good sit harness...Waaaay more comfortable than just a waist strap (unless I didn't see it right)
-Get a second lanyard and a climbing line...two tie ins every time you cut, and lanyard in the second one as you pass the branches. Never be unattached at any time...we are takling to a beginner (climber) here!
-You need a line that will reach the ground, essential IF something goes wrong and you need to get down in a hurry, and sooo much easier for your final descent.
-If you gaff out up there, with just the one lanyard on your side D rings you will be heading for the bargain basement, non stop, unless your face, chin, double arm death grip or the lanyard hooking a lucky stub somehow arrest your losing fight with gravity. That hurts by the way...
- crossing your lanyard helps, or a second lanyard on the centre D will arrest a fall.
- General rule of thumb...but open for alteration as the situation dictates...spikes for dismantling, no spikes for pruning.
-For pruning, set a high line or double lanyard/climb line your way up to a high tie in...then work the tree.
'kay, said enough now