After 16 days at basecamp, battling a flu and a little boredom, I’m on my way up the mountain. I’m excited with a dash of apprehension. I feel recovered but it will still be a big test of my skills, fitness and endurance. The amount of fixed line work on the mountain will be a new challenge for me. The plan is to wake up at 1 pm and eat some breakfast before entering the Khumbu icefield. We move at night to reduce the risk of a collapse of ice. It will probably take me at least 10 hours to reach camp 1 at 19500 ft. The next day I will climb to camp 2 which is at 21000ft. Camp 2 is much bigger and has a full cooking staff and a dining dome tent. Our tents at this camp are much smaller than at basecamp. I will probably spend a day or two resting and acclimating before trying to climb the Lhotze face to camp 3. I will touch camp 3 and return to camp 2 to sleep before returning to basecamp. I need to pack and rest this afternoon before my big adventure. Some of the gear I will take will stay at camp 2 – my -40 degree sleeping bag, my air mattress and my sleeping mat along with my down suit and heavy mitts.
When I question my abilities, I think of my fellow survivor, Cheryl, and my sister, Kandy, who are inspirations to me. If they can tackle their daily struggles then I can follow their examples and dig deep. I appreciate everyone’s support- it keeps me focused and determined! Thank you my friends.
Yesss – so excited you are getting to push yourself up to Camp 1 and 2! You got this MB!
I think they wrote a song about this
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, ain’t no valley deep enough, ain’t no River wide enough, to keep you away from submitting this mountain!
If I could upload a music file playing the theme from Rocky, imagining where Rocky is running up the steps to the top of his “mountain,” leaping for joy when he gets to the top. That’s how I see you!
And by the way, have you considered, when you get to the very top, planting a big red and white MAGA sign? 😉
So excited for you Mary Beth, your hard work and experience will pay off. Can’t wait to hear your stories about life above basecamp (and how many card games you won)!
With you in spirit,
Hudson
Your perseverance is no match for this mountain. Rooting for you every step of the way!!
Amazing pics Mary Beth. Can’t wait till you send some from the top!
Go MB! I know you’ll make the most of it, and get to push yourself to new heights. Wishing you clear and sunny skies. Rossi