Christian is not in a position to update his blog so in an effort to keep everyone updated on their trek I will summarize what I know. On September 2, 2013, Christian and Kirsten successfully reached Everest Base Camp. It was a challenging journey but gratifying. They started the day in Lobuche and reached Gorak Shep by lunch time. After lunch they took a 4 1/2 hour hike to base camp and then back to Gorak Shep for the night. Base camp was very cold and the hike was a bit treacherous over the glacier. I was very grateful to hear that they made it back to the tea house safely. As Kirsten put it, the trek was longer and harder then what either one of them expected, but they made it! They are currently trekking down and intend to spend the night tonight in Periche. I expect that the trek down will be easier on them physically. On a personal note, I am so happy that this part of the trip is over. I can’t imagine how physically challenging this experience has been for them. One thing is for sure, Kirsten is a very strong young lady both physically and mentally. I am in awe of both of them.
In the photo are our Guide (Jangbu) and photo equipment porter (Lakpa) and Michela from Australia, who trekked with us and was a great addition to our team.
GREAT NEWS, PM
“I expect that the trek down will be easier on them physically.”
They must be careful not to get Shin Splints!
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/shin-splints
Remember when Ruth Ann & I took the 13 mile DOWN HILL hike from Glacier Point to the Valley and Sean picked us up @ Camp Curry?
We were HURTING and that was only a few miles. Getting downhill FAST can be HARMFUL – just saying
As I recall, I think Ruth Ann wore flats :). Which is what Kirsten would have packed had we not bought her hiking boots. Their guide is very experienced and I think he wanted to get them to an altitude that they could function better in. The head cold has really made this a very painful experience for both of them. Their immune systems are suffering and so they need to move down when they can. It should take them 4 days to get down.
Kirsten and Christen, congrats on your achievement! Both of you are amazing for making the ascent to base camp. Have a safe trip back!
Hiking downhill is just as exhausting as hiking uphill, but now you get to abuse a different set of muscles.
Rest up and regain your energy.
When you are 69 ,downhill is a way of life.
For them , they are homeward bound…cake and pie.
( I hope)…
Many thanks for whomever posted the blog for Christian. It was most informative and nade rhis Grandmother feel ggood to know how close to coming home our “chicks” are.
Insane pictures never been on an elephant before. Brandin went on an elephant Orange County fair once he said WOW It looks high fom up here !!!!!
Glad to hear you have access to a shower, I bet you the ele on the plane were all hoping for a strong tail wind and a SHORT filght. I think Patty is the most happy to hear about you being in a place where they have other things besides rocks and Witch Doctors. Sorry to tell you this but we have a scheduled meeting with Dr. Talnack (DOD Grant lady this coming weekend). You will be dying of jet lag but it is not an option o change it,ntrst me.
Loving Baby Brother and Family
Jackson too