Happy Easter! We managed a minor celebration this morning with mini chocolate eggs; they were a lovely treat, albeit some of them melting in pockets during the day… This morning was a slow start for some of us as there was an option to go visit a local hospital from 8 – 9am, and, as only 5 people decided to go, the rest of us had the time to admire the view and take photos. It had snowed again over night but we woke to clear blue skies and warm weather, creating the most picturesque view of both Lhotse and Ama Dablam from the tea house. Unusually, it was also warmer outside than in and we made sure to take full advantage.
The warm weather continued for most of the day. We descended all the way back down into the valley and back up the other side to stop briefly at the Tengboche bakery and visit the monastery before descending 20 minutes below to where we’re staying over night. It was incredible the difference this time compared to our ascent to Tengboche 4 and a half years ago. Then that was probably the hardest day for me – I was suffering from altitude sickness and all the uphill was really hard work. This year it was simply a beautiful walk. I was also able to actually visit the monastery, where as last time all I remember is giving away my food from the bakery and falling into my tent. The monastery is a beautiful building filled with such intricate paintings and carvings, some quite disturbing too. Quite a few from the group stayed up in the village to wait for the afternoon ceremony in the monastery, however most said it made them sleepy! The weather cooled by the time we left the bakery, but it stayed clear and I went out with my camera to take some photos of the area before dinner and make friends with the local horses. I also watched a brave raven pluck fur again and again from a yak for its nest, even sitting on the aggravated yak’s back at one point!
After a tense game of Canasta this evening (which my mum and I won against my dad and sister) almost the whole team has already gone to bed. Everyone seems to be getting better from any illness (me included!) and all seem happy, if a little tired. Goodnight!