Local time: 18:30 9 Nov 2007
Location: Gorak Shep
Altitude: 5150m
Weather: Snowing in the morning and overcast all day.

Hi All, It's Paul Adler in Gorak Shep. We had a pretty lazy day today, because we only had a small distance to go and we were all tired from yesterday's efforts.

Getting to Gorak Shep
We had a sleep in this morning, enjoyed a good breakfast at Asian Trekking's Eco Lodge in Lobuje and left at 10:30. The way to Gorak Shep starts out pretty flat and easy going and then all too soon you have to climb up a steep hill. This is the start of the moraine, which is much slower to traverse. We got to Gorak Shep just after midday and have been chilling out here since. Darren was going to climb Kala Patar, but there was no views possible with the overcast conditions, so he decided against it.

Next few days
We are staying in Gorak Shep for 3 nights to have time to explore base camp and climb to camp 1 on Pumori. After this we'll head back down the Khumbu valley and begin our approach to Island Peak. Our plan is to work pretty hard these next couple of days and then take it very easy getting to Island Peak. Hopefully we'll arrive nice and rested for the climb.

Health
We are all feeling good, although a few of us have a slight cough (including me), and a very mild headache. But we are all sleeping well, which is a very important sign.

Till next time,
Paul A.

Your messages
Uncle Kevin & Aunty Ruth
Great to hear from you both, long time no hear. Yes everything is going well with this trek and the rest of the adventure company. Let me know when your ready to come and see these remote and beautiful places your self. Say hi to the rest of the family for me.
Take Care Dave

Mum & Rob
Some useful information for Rob to prepare for next year is to concentrate on his cardio work and leg work. His current training will provide a good foundation and I will adjust it when I return. To compare against Kokoda a hard day on EBC is harder than Kokoda however an easy here is much shorter and easier. Send my love to the family.
Love Dave

Mark D
Great to hear for you dude. Hmmm, here or London. I choose here! Its certainly different world, very beautiful and very rugged. Sleeping at 5150m tonight. I must tell you I'm on the edge of my physical limits. Two big days coming up, Everest Base Camp (5300m) and Pumory Camp 1 (5600m) for a great close-up view of Everest. Then 3 or 4 easy days before the big climb up Island Peak. That will really test me, if I make it.

I've heard about the LSC party. Vicky told me just before I left. I should make it, if still alive. What night and where is it? Hope to see you end everyone there.

Soz about the nudie swim, but you know me I just had to do it. Wait and see what happens on the summit.

Cheers
Paul B