Hello everyone. You know how I'm clinging on by my fingertips to this communication process "under supervision " etc. Well what with the ongoing battery issues and hassle with the phone being held by the army, we now have two of our three allocated liason officers on site. They are civilian(in our case) Nepalis instructed to watch over us throughout, making sure the right people climb the right mountain etc, and this year they are expected to be particularly attentive.
All in all, the messages may become less frequent and/or shorter for a while, as expected, so don't worry if things go quiet!
With regard to the big Liverpool game, I lay awake most of my night without ever hearing a commentary or a result...blooming World Service eh? Heard a bit now though, so I'm tired out and fed up with the last minute Chelsea equaliser...ah well, come on you reds!!!

As I write, it's started hailing on my tent, after the usual sunny start. One senses a possible change in the weather? Henry has suggested Andre goes up towards camp two tomorrow with some others from the group, strong Australians actually, with us three going later we presume. We don't know why we have been seperated at this early stage, and are saddened by it really. A master plan will no doubt be revealed by our experienced leader in time....

My cough that has dribbled on since my early cold has markedly worsened overnight...an irritation has become a bit of a preoccupation unfortunately, as in 2006 really. It drives me mad, and others too no doubt, and is very wearing indeed, but I'm not ill with it yet. It needs to go. Please.

There's an ITN news crew arriving here soon, to follow Ran....that'll please the authorities, though a permit has been approved apparently. We'll be watched like hawks I reckon!

There seem to be more avalanches around us than usual this year, Booming down, day and night, not near to our tents, but of some concern for later on, higher up?

Messages

Jackie, don't worry, I've only read half a book, so far, quite incredibly, a testament to the good company of the group I guess. I'll get around to your little gem soon I'm sure...thank you again for it.
Ruth, hope you liked the Ted feature?

From Spencer Bear

Jan
Hi Jan, I cannot believe Ray did not tell you how I have been so far. But there again he is a bit short minded!
After being stuffed in a rucksack till Lukla he eventually let me out for the odd photo. Now i'm in a pocket in his tent most of the time although he did take me to camp 1 and he promises to take me to the summit. I look forward to boring you with the photos.
PS I need a bath!

From Ray

Jan
Hi Darling, sorry about the connection last night. It's horrible not saying goodbye properly but at least we have these messages which is better than we have had on other trips. I can't believe it's almost 4 weeks since I left, hopefully we shall have summited in the next 4 weeks and I will be on my way home. All my love Ray.

Claire & Paul
Thanks for the update on the match, nothing changes eh? Lets hope we field a more attack minded team against the Smoggies.

Bev
Things must be quiet at work with all these messages I keep getting. Don't save all the work for when I get back or else. I'm not using the warm water bottle yet, that starts after camp 2!
Keep the rabble in check and make sure the kitchen is kept clean! Ha Ha.