Marty Schmidt -  from Aconcagua, Argentina 2011 : Dispatch One

Marty's first dispatch from Aconcagua:

Hello Daan, Macpac and everyone following us with this expedition to South America's tallest summit, Aconcagua, just under 7,000 meters high. For the past few days Brianne, Rob and I have been dealing with baggage not showing up. One airline tells us that the bags should have been delivered and the other airline tells us that they have not shown up at all. Who do you believe?

Rob pushed the door down and got the right people to help, while talking to them, he spotted the bags in the corner amongst many other bags, 2 days later. The joy from his heart was felt by everyone in Mendoza. Now the expedition can move ahead. We know this is nothing compared to the 2 million passengers and 10 millions flights cancelled during this festive season, we do count our blessings and are very thankful.

Rob Brazell is a man I met through Von Whitby out of Salt Lake City many years ago. We both go way back, Von being a client since 1988. Rob's daughter wanted to climb Aconcagua with her father and so this expedition developed during the past few months. We three are now packed, planned and ready to move forward to Los Penitentes, a little ski resort at the base of Aconcagua. We leave tomorrow and will start our 3 day trek into Plaza Argentina straight away. Brings back great memories for me with Peter and Eva last year and the year before this was with Jason and Bob. Sending you four wonderful thoughts.

During this expedition I will phone to Daan and talk bit about our progress during this climb and what is happen with everyone. I'll do this every 2-3 days. Looking forward to this climb with Brianne and Rob.

We just had a major storm system come through this part of the Andes, most likely plenty of snow fell on our route. The challenge is upon us three to keep our pace, acclimatize well and be prepared for our summit day. So say tuned and we'll let you know how we are doing. 

Good thoughts to you all for a safe, content, full of good will, happy New Year. Enjoy what your doing for you can only really live in the now moment. All the best, cheers, Marty, Rob and Brianne.

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.

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