Time: 6:45am 18th May 2007
Location: From my sleeping bag at Everest Base Camp
Weather: Looks like a clear day so far.
Hi everyone,
I just spoke with Paul on the radio and he is now leaving Camp 1 and heading for Camp 2. He wanted to thank everyone for all the messages yesterday – he is receiving them when he’s at the high camps.
He and Attila had just finished a breakfast of porridge with chocolate in it! He told me that they had about 10-15cm of snow overnight up there (only about 3cm here at basecamp) so finding the route may be a little tricky as they make their way up through the Western Cwm.
We also received an updated weather forecast last night which indicated that there may be a change coming through on Monday along with stronger winds. This is not good news and we’re not too sure what to do about it yet but figure we’ll reassess once we get today’s forecast in. If necessary, Paul may have to sit at Camp 2 until another patch of good weather comes through (like we did last year).
That’s all for now. Will let you know when he arrives at Camp 2.
Fiona
Thanks, Fiona
I’m hoping that this new report will turn out to be false but if Paul has to wait it out at C-2, we’ll all be here continuing to send messages of support. Fingers still crossed! MC
Good Luck, Paul! Indiana Everest enthusiasts are watching and praying for you. For wisdom to make wise decisions and strength and endurance for the challenge ahead. Safe journey!
Tony from Indy
Rosemary & Dave here – raining and overcast in Paynesville. Heaps of rain north of the ranges, around Wangarratta over 50 ml in last 24 hours. Hope your patchy weather brightens up so you don’t have to sit around too long. I’ve been thinking about your numberous treks through the ice fall – how does it compare to last year? Does a ‘track’ actually get worn by climbers? Are the rickety ladders renewed each season? Great you will only have one last trek through, and it’s good you are fitter and able to appreciate the landscape more this time. Must be truly awesome, the colours and space – and unbelievably quiet. Watching you, your patience and determination are an inspiration for anyone wanting to achieve a goal. A bit of ‘fingers crossed’ also doesn’t go astray.
Thanks for the updates Fi…it’s wonderful to know that things are really going well for Paul. We’re cheering hard! Ron & Anne, Black Rock
Good Luck Paul I hope that you are safely in Camp 2 by now and that the weather will be great for your summit bid. We are now in katmandu where it is raining!! We were lucky o get out of Lukla – noone got out the previous 2 days and they couldn’t today either. It was touch and go yesterday – first flight was 8.00 with 2 of us and the other 4 at 10.30 – at least we made it!! Met Mohan this morning and we were full of praise for Asian Trekking – service, guides etc. Fiona we hin photos taken at AngNima’s home with us and his mother to give to Ang Nima – they were good. Had dinner at Fire & Ice and Cas bought champagne to celebrate – excellent!! Love to you both and thinking of you always
Mum xx
Hi Paul, Great to hear you have started your ascent. May the good weather hold for you and not hold you up too long. We are thinking of you as we head off on our E W trip. Heard about heavy rain round Tibaburra where we are about to head! Rain at last in many places. Our thoughts and prayers go with you. Stay safe and warm. Love Liz and Bill. Love to Fiona
Hi Paul just want to say hi and good luck.
Kizza
Hi Paul,
I have just returned from a trainingstrip in switzerland for our Denali climb. Gratulation for this nice site and idea.
Also many greetings to Fiona and all the friends over there. My thoughts are with you. I know how difficult it is, to find the right decissions on the mountain. We have discussed several times about thouse situations when I have been in Melbourne and I am sure you will do the right. And Paul – keep in mind: to the summit! but save and healthy home. I wish you all the luck you need for a successful climb.
walter
Paul and Fiona,
Have been following all since the start. Amazing how quickly this season has gone especially for me sitting here at sea level. Just want to let you guys know Terri and I are praying for a safe summit bid. Wish I could have been there with you this year. Can’t wait to hear all the base camp gossip. God speed.
Bud and Terri
Good luck Paul and stay safe on your way. We are keeping you in our hearts on your climb. Heres to good weather low winds.
Patti and Phil
San Francisco
Hey Paul and co
My most positive thoughts are with you for a succesful summit bid and also for your safe return. I will spend the next week trapsing through cane and dairy farms and along river and creek banks for work (much better than spending my day in front of a computer screen or in meetings and also for spending some full days breaking in my trekking boots!). You will always be in my thoughts as will Fi in base camp (Fi, if you get bored try to figure out a way we might be able to breath through our ears under water!!!).
Love always Sara (Maggie Island)