7 a.m.: The base camp team reports that, using binoculars, they can see the climbers hovering at around 11,500 feet, preparing for the next portion of the ascent. Conditions are perfect: clear skies and firm snow.
In the earliest of hours this morning, the team awoke and prepared for the ascent. Under a star-soaked sky, the first of the five rope teams left camp at 2:40 a.m.; the last at 3:25 a.m. Those at base camp watched the team as they began their ascent—their headlamps bobbing like fireflies.
Last night was full of anticipation, emotion and beauty. Den mother and base camper Connie George reports that the dark new-moon sky allowed them to see the Milky Way in sharp relief, and that a brilliant shooting star came so close it felt like it hit Dr. Sean’s tent! Magical! Teams held prayer flag ceremonies to set their intentions for the climb, and everyone turned in to their tents early to get some much-needed sleep—or, if the stomach butterflies wouldn’t allow sleep, then just some much-needed rest!
Stay tuned for news of Misery Hill, the 14,162-ft. summit and descents. Go climbers!
Our prayers are with each of you. This is simply an amazing thing that all of you have choosen to do. It's hard to imagine how many of us here on the flat land are cheering everyone on. Go team go!!!
A proud father
Posted by: Bill Rising | June 24, 2009 at 09:40 AM
Good day, my friends, and up you go!
Posted by: esteban | June 24, 2009 at 09:18 AM
Go climbers! We're pulling for you!
The Virtual Climbing Team "Jennifer's Friends" had a successful stair-climbing journey this morning. We raised $710, which means that we had to climb 142 flights of stairs. (one flight for every $5) We all made it and were very glad that we chose to do the climb in an air-conditioned house, instead of the 90 degree, 99% humidity weather. Even with the A/C at 72 degrees, we were all pretty sweaty by the end! We were joined for part of the climb by my two children, as well as the dog and the guinea pig!
Our friend Kristin is climbing right now out in South Dakota. Go Kristin!
We started the climb with a energy-sending ritual, and took periodic breaks to visualize Jennifer on the mountain and climbing. Go Jennifer!
Posted by: Sue Davis-Killian | June 24, 2009 at 08:26 AM
Our prayers are with you guys.
Posted by: Jeff McAbee | June 24, 2009 at 08:14 AM