We've learned that yaks can't get to Everest base camp. Yaks can go as far as Lobuche at approximately 16,000 feet (due to deep snow). All expeditions have been delayed. There are now ten expeditions waiting to get to base camp.

Because of this, the porters have basically doubled their rates from 150 rupees to 300 rupees for the trip. The porters are asking for more because they have to work much harder and need more equipment under these conditions, and due to the demand for their services. This seems to be understood by most of the teams.

It's been reported that there is about six feet of snow in the Khumbu Icefall. Mal Duff, the leader of the British expedition, has hired a Sherpa team to fix ropes up the icefalls. It's interesting that Sherpas will be fixing the route through there, certainly one of the most dangerous parts of the climb. All other teams are sharing the expense of the icefall team.

All other teams will be using the ropes that the Sherpas will fix. Due to the heavy snow, this could be tricky, to say the least.

We had our first interview with Liz Holly regarding the Everest expedition. Liz is a local historian who chronicles all Everest expeditions. We'll send along some great stats that she compiled.

I can barely think I'm so beat. More to come soon so please disregard grammar and spelling because I'm too tired to do anything about it now.

On Sunday we'll interview the guides (including Sherpas, of course) including Lobsang, Anatoli, and Scott and will send some videotape along.

This area is amazing and we're thrilled to be here. Bye for now.

-- Jane Bromet