Michelle meets Del and Judd at NOLS

Dispatches from Michelle Olson, July 5-8, 1997

Michelle helps the team set up camp in NOLS's backyard

July 5
Today we arrived at the NOLS camp. It's sort of lonely here; not many people are here besides us. Del Smith and Judd Rogers have completely surpassed any expectations of cool. They are both really nice and they seem like they will be a lot of fun on the trip. We went through our gear and practiced setting up our tents. Right now it's pouring down rain and it's really weird sleeping outside. Today was mostly a getting-to-know-your-surroundings day. Our parents came and saw everything. This looks like it's going to be lots of fun.

July 6
Today we learned a lot. We leaned how to climb a rope using prussik knots, which takes very little energy and is a lot of fun. Tomorrow we are going on a training hike to Mount Baker. My Hi-Tec boots and the rest of my gear fit really well. I'm really enjoying everyone's reactions to us and I'm not sure they knew what to expect from us. The team has been bonding really well because all of our distractions have disappeared. There is only one drawback: I miss all my friends (already) and even my parents and siblings.

July 7
Today we climbed Mount Baker. It was my first hike with a big pack. It was hard but fun. Our gear is really nice; it kept us warm and dry. I realized when I came up the mountain that I forgot my camera but it was all good. I'll just have to remember it for the BIG trip. I am learning a lot. I enjoy everyone's company.

July 8
Today it rained and we stayed in the tent all day. The conversation became very interesting as time passed. The snow melted about 6 inches that day, so our tent was sitting on this hexagon-shaped platform of ice. All of us got a bit edgy near dinner, but after we ate, things smoothed out. I hope the sun comes out tomorrow; the sound of the rain hitting our tent is really getting to me.