Jambo,
Tomorrow I wake up early for the start of the Trek up to Kilimanjaro. I'm traveling with about 7 others and about 12 porters. Since I won't be able to blog while I'm climbing, I'll have to do it when I return in 7 days. I will also be doing daily video logs so when I get back home it will be nice to post the commentary. Hopefully I'll be able to film the final push to the summit (at 12 Midnight) which will be during a full moon. Nice!!
As far as how I'm doing physically, well I'm tired and I haven't even started the trek yet. Jet lag is a Biotch, and of coarse it doesn't help when you stay up late drinking tequila shots with the Belgians. So I guess I deserve any repercussions. I've pretty much tempted fate with my health here as I probably could be taking better care of myself i.e. Eating street food in Zanzibar, combined with taking about 30 tablets each day ranging from Malaria, Diamox and Vitamins. Last night I pigged out on dinner which included raw vegetables (they were soo good!). As a result, this morning I woke with a bit of a stomach ache. Gee, was it the food, tequila, weird to no sleep hours or perhaps the three mosquito bites I already got. Hard to tell what symptoms are what with all the stuff you put into your body. Main thing I'm concerned with is drinking enough water and eating enough food. The good news is I'm feeling pretty good tonight and hopefully it will carry forward through the rest of the week.
I've been speaking with other climbers who just got down and from what I've been told it's no cake walk. The porters usually have to monitor and baby a few in each group; some were even crying (I'll try and get that on film :)) as some of the hikes each day are very long (up to 9 hrs). You would think being in shape would help, but altitude has no selection criteria or body type. Some people get hit much worse than others and if the symptoms are not treated, it can kill you. Other than that, I can't wait to get to the top!! :-) I'll be crossing my fingers.
Today was spent regeneration and gaining strength for tomorrow. About to have dinner and perhaps a glass of wine. Wait a minute, of course I'll be having a glass of wine :-) since there is no drinking allowed on the mountain. Anyway, looking forward to meeting new interesting people on this expedition and also being pushed to my limits.
Thanks for reading all. Wish me a safe journey and I'll blog to ya later.
Ciao,
Tony
Monday, August 31, 2009
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Sweets, you'd better take care of yourself! And you'd better not be the one crying on the mountain, LOL. At any rate, if anything happens, I get the Porsche, k? I will keep you in my prayers and fingers crossed that it's nothing but a wonderful, life-changing adventure and that you stay safe and well. And I cannot wait for pictures and more blogging when you return! Love you, roomie! xoxo
ReplyDeleteAs said before earlier, you've inspired me. The goal of your offerings was/is to help and assist the children of Amani to redevelop their minds, body, and spirits as well for you. You've already proven the acts of faith and hope for them by being there. I have no doubt you'll succeed physically as well. Take it easy babe, eat good, take in the necessary amount of shut eyes and foremost say your prayers, as I will do the same for you. Even if you encounter a little struggle, keep your thoughts on those beloved children and enjoy all the steps you trek.
ReplyDeleteCheers!
Felicya
Be safe!
ReplyDeleteI am waiting on the edge of my seat to hear all about it!