May 16, 2008 - 9:09pm — MountEverest2008
On Our Way Back Up!
A remote teahouse at 16,400ft
Hi all. Very sleepy here, so I will be keeping it very short tonight. Our day started with a goodbye to the very pleasant teahouse we stayed at in Pangboche. It was the perfect spot to recharge our batteries and the owner was an outstanding host. As is customary in this part of the world, she presented us each with a silk scarf (a khata), a gesture wishing us a safe and successful attempt on Everest. Throughout the day, we climbed- starting at roughly 13,300ft and gaining ground to an elevation of 16,400ft. The route was a trekking one, the exact same path we recently descended. The team traveled well, we made good time, and overall, we seem to be a strong unit ready to attempt the summit. Tonight we're resting in another teahouse, tomorrow we will be traveling to base camp. Once at base camp, we'll attend the very important 'oxygen school' where we'll learn how to use properly use supplemental oxygen. Then, we pray for a great weather window to go for it. Showtime is quickly approaching!
Other than our trekking today, we have continued to eat tons of food (maybe six meals as day) and are noticeably feeling our bodies getting stronger. It's odd how powerful an impact oxygen (or the lack thereof) can have on you. At 16,400ft, the air stills seems quite rich to me. We have definitely acclimatized and it's good to feel normal at this altitude.
I'll say goodnight now... and by the way, I think it's really cool how so many people have kind of 'hung in there' as our lengthly expedition has unfolded. I think I have been blogging for nearly two months now... some days are more interesting than others of course... and I appreciate that so many people have been following our team's progress for several weeks. Thank you!
One more night in a comfortable bed...