Our continued trek across Shira Plateau was just incredible today. We were blessed by blue skies and clear air all the way today and the majestic peak of Kilimanjaro looked down on us the entire way. I had my best night's sleep last night so it was good to be hiking with fresh legs and a clear mind and to really enjoy the beauty of this little corner of God's Creation.
One of the joys of being a part of a climb team is the stories and laughter enjoyed along the way and this happened especially more on this day as most of our trek to Lava Tower was relatively gentle. Today I was christened "Kodak" by the rest of the team due to my constant shooting of pictures and falling behind the rest of the team due to my frequent stops to take pictures.
Speaking of frequent stops, one of the things we realize at high altitude with a team of six it seems like someone is always having the need to stop and pee, especially as more and more of us are getting on Diamox.
Duchess |
Lava Tower (Black Rock) in the Distance |
The descent from Lava Tower was definitely the most challenging stretch of climbing we have encountered yet on the Climb. Between the steepness and the scree, we were all thankful we had our trekking poles to provide stability as snailed our way down several hundred feet of descent.
Descent from Lava Tower |
Lava Tower From The Other Side |
One of the developments of today has been the worsening condition of "Papa". The dust from the last two days has really got into his respiratory system as well as he is feeling the full impact of the high altitude on his body. I know as we trekked all day today there were many prayers lifted up for his well-being and his ability to continue the Climb with us.
The Most Beautiful Campsite in the World |
One of the greatest understatements of the Climb so far came from "Pig Pen" Steve Meier as we rolled into camp and saw the Barranco Wall for the first time -- "That doesn't look that steep" -- these were words he would quickly take back the next day as we made our way across it.
It was especially enjoyable to just sit and rest in all of this beauty. The porters gave us another special greeting as we arrived to camp -- Hakuna Matata Kilimanjaro -- indeed, Don't Worry, Be Happy...