May 4, 2008 - 3:57am — MountEverest2008
Birthday and Boots
Base Camp
There was a slight delay in the posting of this blog. The reason was a lack of power... everything here is charged via the sun- and when the sun hides for a few days, batteries tend to drain quickly. This morning though, the sun was back - allowing our electronic gear to get powered up again and in my case, blogs to be posted.
Whereas it took some time- I'll now introducing the final team member of our group, Armand Musey. Turning 41 in ten days time, Armand is from New York City where he worked as a research analyst for a number of years prior to becoming the president and part owner of a boutique investment bank catering to the satellite, media, and telcom industries. In April 07, he decided to take some time off and pursue the dual objective of climbing the world's highest mountains and obtaining a masters degree in modern European studies at Columbia. The year has went well... studies are coming along fine (he has brought some text books to Everest btw), and with success on Everest, he will have completed the seven summits. Additionally, he has partnered with the American Red Cross to raise money via his climbing activity - to date, $45K has been raised. Interestingly, whereas the Icefall is my favorite part of Everest, Armand identified our travel through this region as his least favorite aspect of the trip- he not being a fan of the precarious nature of travel in this area. Rather, highlights of the trip for him so far include the treats served at the base camp bakery and the great mountain views widely available in this part of the world.
Today we also celebrated John's birthday. Our remote location combined with a tasty cake and traditional song made for a birthday to remember. Happy Birthday John!
Also, going forward, I'll try to share a little about the gear I am using out here. I'm particularly happy with one purchase I made back in Atlanta - a pair of Caribou Sorel boots. I consider these my slippers of base camp- they are super warm (rated to -40F), comfortable, and easy to slide on and off. When I'm not in my climbing boots, this is what I am wearing on my feet. Climbing boots are made of stiff plastic and, whereas high performing when climbing, they are not so comfortable for everyday wear (such as on rest days at base camp). I think my pair of Sorels cost $150... in my mind, they are worth every penny. Also, as Hlee and I are planting roots in Colorado, I have no doubt these babies will get plenty of use at home too.
Will write more very soon...