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In the Beginning
Kathmandu - Saturday, April 1, 2000
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Vern
Tejas


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Boy that's a long flight, 19 hours from LA to Kathmandu. Not to mention the commuter hop out of Seattle. But who's keeping track, for I have known for some time that the longest journey begins with a single flight. It was visually exciting to look out on the Himalaya range as we entered Nepali air space. Starkly rising above the surrounding foothills, Everest is hard to miss. While other mountains lie buried under a white mantle of snow, jet stream winds blast the world's highest point clean. Its bare, dark buttresses are a sight to behold with respect and wonder. Man, with all of his technological prowess, still has to look up to see it when flying at 8800 meters (29,000 feet).

We, that's Willi Prittie, Ellie Henke and myself are making the final preparations for Alpine Ascents International's Millennium Everest Expedition. After many months of pulling together the over 6000 Kilos (seven tons) of food and equipment, we are almost ready to begin this adventure. Now all we need is sleep and our climbers. The rest of the team arrives in two days. And then the fun truly begins.

Kathmandu is a brash young child, yet as old as the hills that cradle it. The familiar sounds and odors refresh the visual impact of this most fantastic community. It's a sensual kaleidescope of soul-sculpting impressions. And though I've been here several times before, I am seduced again by colorful bazaars, winding alleys and the throng of humanity. I really can't think of a more interesting place to launch a climb from or for that matter a more interesting climb. So come join with us for the next couple of months as we explore our world as well as ourselves on the highest place on earth.

"To The Summit"

— Vern Tejas, MountainZone.com Correspondent

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