Closing In!

< Newer | Older > Sun, 02/22/2009 - 13:23 — joi

The group with the goal behind usDATE: February 22, 2009

LOCATION: Barafu Camp, 15,600, 5 hours of hiking, cloudy and sunny

Phyllis here,

Short of breath, I was presented with a rock in front of me and I was like "no way", then the guides were next to me and I was like "way". So, dude, then through the clouds I heard singing, I thought it was altitude induced but then "way" It was the whole group of porters and guides singing and dancing and celebrating our arrival at high camp.

Can you all tell we are like way jazzed? Yes folks, this is our last post before our oxygen addled brains take in the top. We now go to the tents to spend 3 hours resorting the two bags that will go in our day pack. No anxiety here.

We're ready! We rock! Catch you maybe at the summit.

Messages

Go Karen

clcdis@rit.edu — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:09

Karen go go go we love you
Cyn and Frankie

Hey Jennie

postsp — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:17

Almost at the Summit, keep going! Love, your little sis, Susie

Keith Holy Cow!!!

PSymanski — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:42

Great Photo with today's post. It really sends home the message of what you guys are facing every day and how extraordinary you all are for taking on this task. You are almost there! Step by step. Can't wait to hear what it is like when you actually Summit!!! Keeping going and be well!!! Paula

Karen at the summit

jdaniels — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:42

Our hopes and prayers go with you all on this final part of the climb. What an accomplishment!! Have a glorious day! Blessings to all. Love Mom and Dad

Keith

jbrown — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:51

Hey Boss,
I bet you have been wondering where I was. Okay maybe you haven't but I will tell you anyway. I see Paula told you about the Gaudy Gala. It was so much fun those Bougois girls really know how to throw a party. Cliff didn't get to go to his prom so I bought us tickets to the Gala and didn't tell him where he was going. It was his 41 st birthday and I just packed his clothes and put him in the car. When we got to our hotel I laid out his clothes for him and he said he wouldn't be got dead in that outfit. He thought I was taking him somewhere to get laughed at. I assured him it would be just fine. My son Mark and his wife came with us so when he saw them in their outfits he knew it would be okay. When we drove up the marque said Relay For Life Gaudy Gala and he finally knew what I was up to. Paula was there taking Prom pictures so I had ours taken. We also had and ACS picture taken of Alex, Loretta, Ashley, Tina and myself. It was a fun night. Sounds like things are going good with you and your group. I can't even imagine what it will be like to hit the top. When you get there can you give a shout out to my mom and dad for me? You will be closer than I will be. I have been telling them you are on your way so they should be looking for you.
Take Care,
Joan

Megan

BrentandBernie — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:54

Today's picture gave me goosebumps. Way to go to you and Sal and all the others. I am so proud of you and miss you so much. Keep your chins up as Grandma would say. You are my rock. Love, Mom

WAY TO GO KEITH!

lheffner31 — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 14:58

Spending the morning catching up on all of your posts and pictures! What an amazing journey you are having... I am so proud of your accomplishment! You are almost to the Summit... I can only imagine the beauty that you are seeing and will continue to see!

Way to go, Keith... remember you are an inspiration to us all.

Lisa H.

summit

johnh14564 — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:02

Rick andTee almost to the top,hope your still doing well.I look for you in the photos or hear an audio,saved them all.good luck to every one,see you at the top---dad

Sharon

mmcginnity — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:05

I have tears in my eyes as I read this post. If I am emotional, I can't imagine all of your emotions as your get ready to summit. Peter asks that you do a little dance for mom at the top.
We are picking up Mary Alice and Reid from the airport today.
School starts again tomorrow. I am very much looking forward to it!
Cant wait to hear about tomorrow!
Love, Molly

Hi Jon

HarriettR — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:13

Wow! What Herculean efforts! Everyone in the family - Margolis's, Mandelkerns, Lillys, and Rubins's have all sent word that they're following your trek and want you to know that they're ecstatic, but not surprised at your dedication and progress. They all send their love and encouragement. We can't wait to see you all at the top. Today's photo and blog were spectacular. Love, Hat

Dude Phyllis...

ssf1230 — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:16

Who is that oxygen-addled woman who posted at Barafu Camp on the 22nd? And what have you done with my sister? Okay, you rockin', ready, "way"-jazzed folks, we're waiting for the news that you've made it! I feel almost as excited as a climber (well....). We definitely hope to "catch you at the summit!"
Love,
Susan

Go Keith GO

kfracasso — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:17

What a great shot with the end in site. How beautiful and inspiring! You are doing great and we can't wait to see your view from the top. Keep on trekkin':))
Love,
Kathy, Eric, Caitlin, Nicholas and Madeline

Suzy, Sharon & Team

Jeanne Mogauro — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:37

I loved hearing your voices on yesterday's audio! I am tearing up as I'm writing this. I'm so proud of you all! By the time you probably get this, you will have already reached the summit. Please know that we are all there with you in spirit. We are in such awe of all of you. Looking forward to getting the summit post. We love you!
Jeanne Mogauro :-)

To Karen & Her Fellow Star Catchers

rockymilo — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:48

By now you know that you can do anything. In spite of the storm, you have adjusted the direction of your sails. Touch a star for me!

Love, Nancy

You Rock, Grandpa Marty and Grandma Phyllis!

samkorn — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 15:57

"Way" to go, dudes! You really do rock! I really admire what you are doing. I get to tell all of my friends that "MY GRANDPARENTS ARE CLIMBIN' KILI!" The typical response is "No way" but you guys got it ALL the "way"! It was great to hear the sounds of your voices and all of the "Way"s of your posts. Vacation's relaxing, but slightly dull. The recent spot of fun came in the form of Coco Key, an indoor water park, which was fun, but not as cool as climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro! I love you both SO much! Hear from you at the SUMMIT!

Love,
-Sam

Hey Cousin Karen

Mary Ellen — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 16:02

I am so incredibly proud of you. I can't write any more because I can't see the screen! LOVE YOU CUZ! Fellow Fighter, ME

Desi & Alex

Alyce Jane Steele — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 16:07

Amazing--Amazing, you and your group are amazing. I am in tears just thinking of what you are accomplishing!!! With all my love, Auntie Jane

Mom, Duuuuude!

jeffreykorn — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 16:13

I think the altitude is getting to your brain, Mom. Please have Dad check that out and let us know that you're not going crazy at 15,000 feet, OK? :-) We're all following your footsteps with great interest — on the edges of our seats and filled with pride at the way you're conquering this challenge. Even over the miles that separate us at the moment, we hear your trademark positive attitude and enthusiasm. You're amazing! We're cheering you on for the final push!

Love,
Jeff

------

FROM DAVID (sitting in Jeff's office, taking dictation from David...):

Way, Dude! You're doing great! I agree with Dad. The altitude really is getting to you. Way to go, surfer dudes! Is everything OK? Are you happy with all your climber friends? Are you losing a lot of breath, or just a little? Are there a lot of cool plants or animals? When you looked under the plant, and found that skull, was it a human skull, or some sort of animal skull? With altitude, are you feeling at all light-headed or dizzy, or just lack of breath?

I'm doing great. Vacation is fun, but it has gone by really quickly. Right now, as I'm talking to you, it's the last day of vacation. I went to CoCo Key (water resort) with splashes and fun... It was SO great! Dude, I felt like I was surfing! I went down giant water slides, and swam in pools and hot tubs. Of course, it was all inside. I'm looking forward to going back to school and seeing my friends. But I also will miss the fun and family time. I'm going to miss all the free time, and I'm going to have to go back to ALL the homework.

You guys are doing so great! Keep it up! Love you SOOOOOO much!

Your grandson,
David

Loved hearing all your voices last night

pattylewis — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 16:31

All the 08'ers loved talking to all of you last night. It was very special to share in your adventure. Your all tucked away in your cozy sleeping bags for those last few hours of rest right now. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you trek to the summit. Jack & Patty

Great talking to you

LAllen — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 17:30

Hello 09er's,
What a great time we had talking to you on the phone last night. You all sounded great. Get what rest you can. When you start out for the summit follow your leaders footsteps, one step at a time. Think of all those you are climbing for. You have worked hard to get where you are...you can do this! Stay strong. We are all cheering you on!
Lori and Rick 08'

keithdad

ErinKD — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 17:35

DAD!!!!!!!!
YOUR ALMOST FREAKEN THERE!!!!!!
KEEEP GOING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NEXT TIME I CHECK THIS IT BETTER BE YOU TALKING AT THE TOP! ITS YOUR TURN..I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!!
LOVE YOU
ERIN

Desi and Alex

DesisMom — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 17:49

It's 12:45pm here and where are you now I wonder? I suppose running across the top of Kilimanjaro singing "The Hills are alive with the sound of music" isn't in the program. So happy you were met by the tuneful dancers who kept your spirits up. My heart and all of me is with you guys. Speechless, Love Mom

salvatore

seeley_eli — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 18:02

ALMOST THERE!!!!!!!! ry will be home tonight. sounds like he's doing good. i bet you all are excited.....probably a little tired too. hang in there. :)

Hi Jon from Bob and June

HarriettR — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 18:35

Bob and June just called. They were having difficulty navigating the journeysofinspiration website and wanted me to tell you how proud they are of you. In Bob's words, "You're the tops!" They're so proud of you. They say that the whole family is rooting for you. They want you to know that they'll be with you in spirit as you stand at the top.

All is well here. Alex and I will go to the dog park for a hike today. There's another New Mexico sun. It will be in the 60's. I got my kiln going finally. I love it and the work I'm doing.

What a spiritual happening you're having today! Please say "Hello" to the great spirit, Father Sun, for me when you reach the top. I love you, Hat

To The Top

Dale Heffer — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 18:37

Awesome picture and it's YOU GUYS, not just some generic picture out of an adventure book! I hope you can all get some rest before the LAST LEG! Wow, hard to believe. Be strong, take in the oxygen (know that it is providing you all you need) and remember why you are doing this! Oh, Yes and don't for get to laugh for the world at the TOP!
Love to all,
Dale (Bonnie's Sister)

Happy Happy Happy Day!, From Mom

Hi Jon -- Following you

Josh Rubins — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 18:59

Hi Jon -- Following you every step of the way with pride, love, and amazement. Josh, Jan and Dan.

Sal, Your doing so good

crystalm426 — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 19:04

Sal,
Your doing so good babe, i'm so excited for you. your doing so good. can't wait to pick you up when you come home. me and salvatore are very proud of you and miss you alot. we luv you muah

Megan

BrentandBernie — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 19:23

Aunt Dee called from Phoenix this AM and she and Uncle Sam send you love and kisses, and to make sure I told you how incredibly proud they are of you. They have been following right along with you. Love you, sweetie. Mommy

Karen and her 09 Team

ChrisDeBrine — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 20:25

You are almost there. I just can't believe you crazy people are climbing Mt. Kili. Sounds just surreal. Listening to Desi's audio made me laugh and cry. She sounded breathless, exhausted and blissfully happy all at the same time. I hope you all make it. Karen we love you and miss you and we are sending you all our support. {BIG HUG} We are praying for each of you.

Megan

gregg2998 — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 20:47

I love it. I wish I could be there with you. Goodluck with the last stretch...Love Greg

Sharon Radak

lbombard — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 21:06

Cant wait to hear about the view from 19,000. Have a great time.Miss you. Love Gregg
hi mom i love you can't wait for you to get home love claire
Hi Mom, I miss you so much , Good luck at the top Love Stefan ps we all miss you

Hi Dad! - Matt

cflanigan — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 21:11

Hello Dad. We looked at the clock here and saw 4 'clock and know that you are just now begining your trip to summit!! As you are summitting there we have a beautiful show of God's fingers reflecting on the icy lake! It's beautiful and we are thinking of you tons! Keep putting one foot infront of the other and soon you'll be walking 'cross the floor! I mean mountain! :) Lots of love see you soon!

Love always,
Char, Teagan, and Aubrey

MEG, SAL AND ALL THE '09 HIKERS, MASTERS OF UHURU PEAK!!!!

BrentandBernie — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 21:37

By the time you read this you will have reached the summit and are on your way down. Congratulations!!!!!! What an extraordinary Journey Of Inspiration!! My best to all and have a safe climb down! Actually, it may take months if not years to make it ALL the way down. WITH MUCH LOVE & ADMIRATION FOR ALL
Brent

Hello Bonnie

wlstal — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 21:44

I knew you could do it and only you could do it not any the rest of us. We see that you are about to reach the sumit so congratulations. Are you comming after or going on the safari after it is a once in lifetime event have fun.
Love your brother Bill

Keith, WOW you are almost

aamann — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 21:49

Keith,

WOW you are almost there!

What an accomplishment.

It must be so beautiful!

Congratulations on an amazing journey.

Amy

Candles lit for you Bonnie...

MarieG — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:06

Hi Bonnie and everyone... we have our candles lit on our home altar as you near the summit. Our little buddha statue, Jizo, protector of travelors and pilgrims stands steadfast... and of course, our love and strength are with you, too. We will send you are breath, as I hear the air is very thin.

We are so proud of you all.

Marie and Peggy

To Bonnie/to Marty and Phyllis

Tinkerbelle — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:51

Carol Samuel
I probably am late in wishing you the best part of the climb - to the summit. I have been thinking of you all day. I spoke with Diane King in church today. She missed the call last night because she was celebrating the 70th wedding anniversary of the parents of her friend, Sandy, who died of cancer. She thought the celebration for such elderly folks would wind down in time to make the call with the '08 group, but Sandy's folks were celebrating. YEA for life!
To the Korn's, I spent part of this afternoon with my best friend, and fellow nurse from RGH, Georgianna Acomb Becker. She sends her greetings and best wishes.
Will be watching for the email about the summit.
Carol

I was telling Dale how I'm

Dale Heffer — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:52

I was telling Dale how I'm reading the Green Mile about Cold Mountain Penetentury which can't help remind me of my voluntary imprisonment for pro life birthing arguments and how after the Maunday Thursday arrest on the Saturday the Catholics say Christ spent in hell a female guard said "The magic hour has come" this reminded me of that glorious moment when the people came dancing to greet you when the slope had been hard and the journey long. God bless and persevere with you.

The Summit

West Coast Gene — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:53

Wow !

I was reviewing your haircut adventure and all I could say is I've never seen you so fit. Summiting today was almost a breeze, hey? So proud ! Congratulations !

Love,
Lil' Brother

Bonnie,
What and exhilirating day for us all. You've followed your dream and now conquered the Mountain of your past. Looking forward to the unabridged version when your get back. The entire team is in our prayers for a safe return to Rochester.
Love,
Vicki

With love and pride

sjdluke — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:54

Keith,
I have been away from home since your ascent. However, before I left I shot the link out to all of my friends (Hamilton and local) who either know you or have been touched by Cancer directly. I have received wonderful feedback and although I have not been able to "weigh in" b/c of others'computer firewalls, I have been watching closely.
It's been surreal to be with some of my closest and oldest college friends and tell them that as we speak my brother is ascending Mt K in the name of all those touched by Cancer. They all send their prayers and many of them, I am told, have weighed in with their support.
How surreal it all must be...My thoughts and prayers are with you as you reach your destination and enjoy what will be the sensory experience of a lifetime. Have a safe and comfortable return. Love, Sue

Big Wow !

West Coast Gene — Sun, 02/22/2009 - 23:57

Aunt Bonnie,

Nothing ever makes you say no. What chance does a mountain have?

Leila

TO THE TOP JEN!!!

apitruzzella — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 00:14

What an awesome sight!!! I can't wait to hear all about it!

I am thinking of you all the time!!!

Love Andrea

Dave (Bonnie's

Dale Heffer — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 01:54

Dave (Bonnie's brother-inlaw). You must be pretty close by now. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other, one step at a time. just keep focusing on getting through the next step. You"ll make it enjoy the sunrise of the next day of your life. Love Dave

Matt

cflanigan — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 02:11

By the time you hear this, the next phase of your adventure will be starting. Oh that hot shower will feel so good in another day!! The mountain you have shared is a metephor for every journey we take. Carry a piece of the mountain's magic with you always! 143 Char

Suzy

lesley — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 03:59

Congrats!! Your an inspiration to all of us.
Lesley

Joanne and Jen

Clarkbar — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 03:59

WOW!! You made it!! You should be on your way back down by now CONGRATULATIONS I don't know if I could have done it. Can't wait to see your pictures and hear all your stories. Mikye came in the back hall today--loving the warmth and food. Took Henry to the airport early this a.m. Now this next part of your journey I would be able to partake. I would love to take the sarfari. No feeding stray kitties==these may not be as friendly or satisfied with a few morsels. ENJOY, missing you guys. Luv Lynn. Joey and the rugrats

Joann and Jen

Clarkbar — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 04:00

JOANN Minus the E!

Keith

Mary-Jo — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 04:36

Keith,
Keep going. You are almost to the top of the world.
Mary-Jo

Congrats, Marty and Phyllis (dude and dudette)

veratrainer — Mon, 02/23/2009 - 08:27

This is absolutely great that you made it to the top of Africa; Vera, Rosemarie, John, and I are sitting in front of the computer, and we got the news that you have indeed made it to the very top. Please return to lower altitude with all your cerebral powers intact so you can tell us the complete story w/o altitudinal challenge.

We have been thinking about you while x-country skiing w/Roberto and Stephanny, and we just drank a schnapps in your honor. Much love, all of us

WOW!

sredmond — Mon, 03/02/2009 - 20:30

I was so excited to read your message. I am glad that you two are doing so well. Maybe I missed it, but I was anxious to see what the summit was like!?! I may have missed the post, but let me know! I hope all is well with you and MArty, and I do miss our training sessions. I am so proud of you both, WAY TO GO....I knew you could do it! Extend my congratulations to Marty, I hope he is reading this too!

Things are hectic around here like always but I will try to get on and see how the decent is going mid week! :)