Made it to Doha, Qatar. John’s daughter Julia and I were stuck in coach while John flew first class. The 13 hours went quick.

Looks like a modern city stuck between a desert and the sea. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to go into the city on this trip. At least we have access to the VIP lounge with food and showers. No alcohol though due to the Muslim religion. I could use a beer too.

Well, after 1 year of thinking and planning for this trip, it has finally begun. I am in DC now waiting for my flight to Qatar. It was hard saying goodbye to Michelle, Aris, and Athan, but I know they will be fine. The boys were really wanting to come with me…but not Michelle:-). Next time. Off to meet my friend John Carney and crew and begin the real leg of the trip. It begins with a 15 hour flight to Doha, Qatar. And then a 10 hour layover. Ouch.

It’s Athan’s birthday. Wow, 9 years old. I love you Athan!

Well, time is running short, but I am ready to go. Aris and Athan helped me do my final gear check. They were a great help. It doesn’t look like a lot to me but I am way over my weight limit. I am going to take it all and sort it out in Kathmandu.

Michelle, Aris, Athan and I had a great time relaxing and watching NCAA basketball Friday night. Unfortunately, Iowa State went down. My time with my family feels really short now. Saturday will be a hard saying goodbye. Boy I love my family and will miss them.

After months and months of endless training the time to go is near. Thank goodness. After restless nights in my altitude tent and little sleep, I awake to go to the gym every morning.

There it is. The stair master. My friend and foe. I usually start my day by climbing 400 flights of stairs which is about 7,000 steps. That will get your heart going. It’s equivalent to climbing the Empire State Building 4 times. No wonder my knees hurt.

I also went to Mt. Mitchell a couple of weeks ago and climbed in the snow for 6 hours. There was 3-10 inches of fresh snow which made it pretty, but a bit difficult and dangerous as I was slipping and sliding everywhere. Thank goodness I didn’t get hurt as that would have been bad.

I am very thankful the training is about over and the real stuff is about to begin. I am 5 days out now and getting pretty organized. I think I am ready.

I had the great honor of speaking to my children’s 3rd and 4th class about my trip to Nepal and Everest. This might be the highlight of the entire trip. The kids were so engaged and asked the best questions. I was so impressed with them. I am so grateful to Ms. Huger and Ms. Wilkinson for allowing me the opportunity to speak to the classes. They signed my prayer flags which I am taking to base camp and some of them wrote me letters. Lourdes should be proud of its teachers and students. Thank you all!