January Antarctica  

18    SAT    Camp 1 via Vinson Base
As soon as we arrived,  about 10-11 am,  we packed and all set off.  Mike and Pat burnt out under heavy loads and Jean Luc was strong. Long day, maybe seven hours, but on no sleep was worse. Arrived without any water. I was crabby. Stoves malfunctioning .

19    SUN    Camp 1 via Vinson Base  
Stayed the day resting. We were all burnt out. The weather was sort of whiting out and intermittent, so we were just as happy to stay in.  Ate,  they retrieved stoves.

20    MON    Camp 2 Mount Vinson 
Left Camp 1 in afternoon and walked about 3 1/2 hours to Camp 2.  Nice walk. Sight of icefall.  This place is really beautiful.  Parked sleds at 2. Contemplated going today but opted for tomorrow.

21    TUE    Camp 3 Mount Vinson
Left Camp 2 about 2 pm. About 4 1/2 hour to Camp 3. Fairly heavy pack, glasses fogging through icefall, I got scared.  Rest of way was beautiful. Made camp. Weather questionable. Cold when sun set at midnight.

22    WED    Camp 3 Mount Vinson, after summitting! Seven Summits
Seven Summits Day. Started strong at 11 am w/holding clouds. Jean Luc burned out half way. He at end of rope pulling me was trying. Mad at Thierry. Crampon came loose. Thought wrong mountain! Finally summit at 7 pm. Cold as hell. Walk down energized! Lost.11pm

23    THU    Vinson Base Camp  
Awoke and it was announced we go to Base today. At icefall I was afraid. Mikel tight roped above me & I walked down. Enjoyed the rest of the long walk, taking photos. At Base, Dave offered me salami sandwich & beer! Great!  Feeling elated, but freezing!
(to be continued)