Everest 2006: Fi and Paul: Base Camp Friday 19th May

Paul and Fiona's Progress: Hi, this is Mary here at Base Camp. Paul and Fiona are safely ensconced at Camp 2. They had hoped to be further up the mountain by now, but the weather changed and according to the latest forecasts they will have to wait a few more days for a better weather window before moving on.

Weather: The weather changed here too and it started snowing last night during dinner and snowed all night. I added an extra layer (if that was possible!) and was quite warm during the night. (What must it be like up at Camp 2???) It must have been very cold in the tent though because not only did my waterbottle freeze, but so did my facial wipes and toothpaste! (Have you ever tried to wash yourself with a frozen facial wipe?) I will put them in my sleeping bag tonight as I do my camera every night. Talkiing of cameras, a very big thanks to Amelia for lending me her camera. It has been fantastic thanks. Sorry I haven't mastered the art of sending some of these great photos.

Updates

Millet One Sport Everest Boot  has made some minor changes by adding more Kevlar. USES Expeditions / High altitude / Mountaineering in extremely cold conditions / Isothermal to -75°F Gore-Tex® Top dry / Evazote Reinforcements with aramid threads. Avg. Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz Sizes: 5 - 14 DESCRIPTION Boot with semi-rigid shell and built-in Gore-Tex® gaiter reinforced by aramid threads, and removable inner slipper Automatic crampon attachment Non-compressive fastening Double zip, so easier to put on Microcellular midsole to increase insulation Removable inner slipper in aluminized alveolate Fiberglass and carbon footbed Cordura + Evazote upper Elasticated collar. Expedition footwear for mountaineering in conditions of extreme cold.  NOTE US SIZES LISTED. See more here.

A cold weather, high altitude double boot for extreme conditions The Olympus Mons is the perfect choice for 8000-meter peaks. This super lightweight double boot has a PE thermal insulating inner boot that is coupled with a thermo-reflective outer boot with an integrated gaiter. We used a super insulating lightweight PE outsole to keep the weight down and the TPU midsole is excellent for crampon compatibility and stability on steep terrain. WEIGHT: 39.86 oz • 1130 g LAST: Olympus Mons CONSTRUCTION: Inner: Slip lasted Outer: Board Lasted OUTER BOOT: Cordura® upper lined with dual-density PE micro-cellular thermal insulating closed cell foam and thermo-reflective aluminium facing/ Insulated removable footbed/ Vibram® rubber rand See more here.

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