Mountain Reflections

After the turmoil of Friday we skied down from Camp 2 in perfect conditions. 2 days rest at base camp before our final summit bid have made philosophers of us all - why is Squash in a bikini while Carole and Ali have down jackets on? Why do so few of the climbers want kids? Why are people surprised that we are eating so much Chinese food? What, exactly, draws us here? Carole says she thinks her home life is so comfortable, she likens the mountain to swimming in the cold sea. Squash loves the challenge of seeing what her body can do, and making mischief with her new best friend. Ali loves the beauty and mountain life. Suzy enjoys spending time with some of her favourite people doing the sport she loves, free of the distractions of the West. This mountain is elemental and raw. Our expedition so far has brought life into sharper focus.