In reply to Papillon:
> (In reply to tlm) I did mention getting in a good position relative to the first bits of gear, right after the part of my text you did quote!
Sorry - it wasn't clear to me when I read it. I guess I see so many people using wall belaying techniques when doing their first trad climbing, totally oblivious to the dangers of doing this that I think it is quite important to make it clear.
I often sit down, especially if there is a handy belaying rock at exactly the right point, worn and polished by generations of bottoms sitting on it. Especially when I am belaying a slow leader and might be there for some time. I stand when I might have to jump out of the reach of the tide, or if it is wet and muddy. I stand when climbing indoors or if the rock looks loose, or if I need to move around to keep the rope in the right position. I would stand if I thought that a dynamic belay might be needed, but on the bumbly routes I'm usually involved with, it doesn't happen often.