19 MARCH, 2013 - EVEREST BASE CAMP!!!

Alison, Cameron and Tendi reached Everest Base Camp!!!

Today is one filled with pure excitement as we commence our ascent to what Cam believes to be the top of the world. It is a parade of smartie colored gortex jackets. Cam and I are like spring crocus. He is in a yellow Ralph Lauren windbreaker and I have a purple MEC number. The trek is slow and congested with yak caravans heavily loaded with goods destined for Everest expedition camps. Yaks have right of way so the trekking time is excessively prolonged. We arrive at Gorak Shep Lodge (5140metres) for lunch .It is the last real sign of civilization unless one is part of an expedition camp. We check our backpacks into the room and make this a quick pit-stop. Cam now is strictly opting for the menu selection of boiled potatoes. No particular reasons since his guts are fine. After this cargo load we are destined to EBC. At 5360 meters we hope that the Diamox holds.

Alison and Cameron at Everest Base Camp – a place to visit once in a life!!

People have turned back, some have run out of time and some don’t know it yet but they will be air lifted out tomorrow! We are both feeling fine and strong.

After approx. 2.5 hours of hiking under a brilliant blue sky we ARRIVE AT EVEREST BASE CAMP!!!!!!

Yak carrying loads for Everest Expedition

The Khumbu Icefall and Glacier has been to our right. The whole area is so majestic. The green of the glacial ice and the pristine white of the snow-capped mountains are breathtaking. We witness several small avalanches and hear the calving of the glaciers. It is unbelievably incredible. I realize that these embellishments become tiresome but there is really nothing to compare this scene to. Several tent/expedition sites are being established for the hive of activity that will soon engulf this region. Proud photos are snapped and we then make our slow return to Gorak Shep for another round of spuds and well-earned sleep.

Love ac