Day 9 - Cache to 16,500' and back to 14k

Carl managed to call me tonight on his regular cell phone. Today the team climbed past Washburn's Thumb to cache supplies at 16,500 ft. They were the only team who climbed to 16,500 today . Snow was falling and the wind on the ridge they traveled on was about 20 mph. They now have 4 days worth of food in their packs and they feel light! They climbed back down to 14,000 ft. camp to sleep tonight. All are doing well and are tired after a big day. Tomorrow will be a rest day. The weather is expected to be good. 17,000 ft. camp will be their goal for Thursday if the good weather holds.

Marlin called me (Trisha) this evening as well and we talked for just over 20 minutes. The team is in good spirits but after a long, tiring day today everyone is looking forward to the rest day tomorrow.

Fun facts for the day:

-The lowest temps the team has seen have only been 0 to -5 degrees so far. Not bad!

-Dehydrated food does not replace fresh. I think any of them would pay some good money for a salad!

-Toilets are missed...especially missed when the frigid wind and icy snow are blowing every which way around you! ;)