In the Shadow of Sagmanthra (Everest), Lohtse and Amdablam

Tendi’s small powers delivered in spades today. Under a clear, crisp blue sky we left Namche refreshed, excited and wearing clean, dry socks. As we climbed higher and higher we were treated to the most incredible views of Everest, Lohtse and Amdablam. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky and we walked for most of the morning in silence, simply mesmerized by their beauty.

Soon we arrived at the junction to the trail leading to Goyko Lakes, our destination of choice. It was with a sense of relief that we left the main Everest Base Camp route. The number of tourists has dropped dramatically and once again we are enjoying those quiet moments of solitude along the way.

While Kim and I grunt, groan, puff and pant, Rob continues to be strong. At dinner I suggested he switch packs with one of our porters. My desperate attempt to see him suffer a little. Not that I want my Robbie to suffer, but misery does love company!

As I put this blog post to bed, we are snuggled up in Dhole, altitude 4110 metres (13,200 feet). We are all feeling well and Tendi is watching us closely for any signs of altitude sickness. It is getting much colder, especially at night, making it difficult to leave the warm wood fire in the tea house dining room to return to our unheated guest rooms. We all go to bed hopeful we won’t wake up in the night needing to pee, for it is a long, cold walk to the loo!

Tomorrow, we climb again.

Giggle of the day

Dal Bhat is the common dish around Nepal and our Dream Team eats several portions a day of this rice and lentil meal. The ongoing joke on trail is Dal Bhat Power - 24 hour. Today, we introduced a new power food to the mix. We dished out Gummie Bears to the crew and declared Gummy Power - 1 hour.