At one point today, I found myself face to face with a piece of snow that look uncannily like snow formations I had seen in both the north and south poles. It was pleasant reminder in a day of hardship as tp why I am here.

I honestly have no idea if I'll be successful in my quest to reach the summmit of Mt. Everest, but all that snow reminded me of the ultimate purpose of this expedition - to connect you to these places. The view from camp 3 is stunning and would not be the same not covered in white. It would be a tragedy for glaciers, snow and ice to end up like the passenger pigeon.

Chhering and I battled the wind making our way up the Lhotse face to camp 3 I don't think we said more than four words to each other the entire day as we were both immersed in the somewhat simple process of walking up hill. Step, breathe. Step, breathe. There is more than enough time to contemplate the outcome of our endeavors.

Right now we are simultaneously moving forward as well as waiting. We have such a small weather window that an increase in wind speeds tomorrow will have a negative effect on our summit.

I'm not sure what to think. I hesitate to discuss my confidence level for fear of making iit drop even further. I am envious of the carefree attitude of the Sherpas - they have been through all this before.

On a positive note a special hello to my two nephews Tyler and Luke - and a Happy Birthday to Luke on the 14th!

Image: Almost home - Camp 3 for the night.