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'The Women of Everest 2005': Ellie, Danielle,
Jeanne, Cathleen, Dianette, Esther
Update:
Namaste from Everest Base Camp
What a day, what a puja. The day here is winding down and what a time it’s
been for everyone. Today was our puja day or blessing day. We woke up to clear
skies and relatively windless conditions. After another tasty breakfast the
team began the traditional wash up before the puja ceremony. There were wash
cloths, razors, and even some make up for the women.

Around 9 a.m. we began the service with two of our monks who are working this
expedition presiding over the prayers and blessings. Phurba Kancha and Tenzing
Tsheri chanted the traditional Tibetan prayers of protection and success with
the other Sherpa following along. Our alter was covered in traditional Tibetan
Thanka paintings, pictures of Rinpoches, ice axes, crampons, and pictures of
loved ones back home. What a colorful and picturesque alter. During the puja
sacred rice is offered, chang is consumed, and finally the prayer flags are
erected with a large pole from the middle of the alter. Seven strings of
prayer flags were then put up making a sort of wheel with the alter at the
center.
The Tibetan Buddhist puja is an enjoyable, casual, and yet very meaningful
affair. The reverence for life is displayed and celebrated with laughter and
humor throughout these ceremonies. I know all of our team was impressed with
how organic the whole experience seemed. After the ceremony dancing, eating
and drinking gave everyone a chance to hang out more with our Sherpa staff and
that bonding was a highlight for all.
The team here is a riot. Each person is not only feeling great at this point
but in excellent spirits. A sense of humor helps such long expeditions and
this team is filled with them. It’s pretty much a delight with this group so
far- day in and day out.
Tomorrow we’ll head up the icefall for a 4 hour round trip excursion. Up
through the ice and across some ladders to get a feel for our trip up to Camp
I in a few days. Some hearts are already racing in anticipation.
All the best,
Dave
Dispatches
Vern Tejas, Willi Prittie, Dave
Morton, Jose Luis Peralvo, and Lakpa Rita Sherpa will lead the Alpine Ascent
team on Everest this Spring. They will attempt the standard South East ridge
route.
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Millet One
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SIZES LISTED. See more here. |
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