5-06-06

 

I would be lying if I said that I wasn't scared to death. Looking straight up at the massive MI17, Russian helicopter that nearly landed on my head was one of the more memorable experiences of this trip. The reminisce of previous failed chopper landings scattered behind me, offered no comfort. I had to keep saying to myself over and over well, if she falls out of the sky - I will be gone so fast that I won't know a thing. Of course, I had to keep my cool because there were a bunch of onlookers hiding being rocks as I dipped and dodged this sketchy situation. (I could see their heads poking out).

To make the day even more eventful,we just lost another team member. Of all the expeditions, ours has suffered the most - it seems. There must be something rewarding at the end of this trip. Doug and I have talked and we are going to stick this thing out - and try to put him on the summit soon. Humorously, the medical staff have learned to run when they see me coming. They say I bring trouble. No worries - I have learned all of their hiding places.

Soon enough, you learn to live with all of the insanity in Base Camp. I laughed myself silly watching a group of Sherpas rub a pain relieving balm (mistaken for sunscreen) all over their faces. Somewhere in all of this chaos is laughter ... and I am gonna find it.