Costa Mesa, Ca.
October 23, 2016
Dear Family & Friends:
I’m over the moon excited! Tonight, I depart for Kathmandu, Nepal. This is my 10th trip to Nepal in the last 10 years. Some of my friends call me “Mr.Mayor” (of Kathmandu). David, my climbing partner, calls me “El Capitan.”
This is the trip I have longed for and dreamed about since I returned home after my first attempt to climb Burke-Khang last Autumn. After a short layover in Hong Kong, I will arrive in Kathmandu at 10 pm on October 24. David arrives the following day. On October 27, we fly from Kathmandu to Lukla and begin the 50+ mile trek to Burke-Khang Base Camp. Both of us will be posting expedition reports, photos and video on our websites.
I have some new equipment that allows me to send e-mail updates and allows you to track the progress of the Burke-Khang expedition.
I recently purchased an inReach Explorer satellite tracking device. With this equipment, I can send e-mail updates that will be posted on my website. These updates can be sent from virtually anywhere in Nepal. The messages are transmitted through a satellite, so all I need is a clear view of the sky, which I will have the entire trip.
The inReach also allows me to send route tracking information that will appear on a map which is located on my website. By logging onto the map, you will be able to see exactly where we are at all times during the expedition. Here is how it works: when you log on to eightsummits.com, you will see a link that states “Burke-Khang 2016.” That link has 2 dropdown options: “Where’s Bill?” and “Photos and Video.” If you choose “Where’s Bill?,” you will see a map with our current location. If you choose “Photos & Video,” you will see photos and video that I have shared in my trip reports. The first few photos now in this link depict the route we will follow on the trek to Burke-Khang and the climb. Please consult these routes from time-to-time to gain perspective on where we are, where we have been and what lies ahead.
The inReach, like my Spot satellite tracker, has an SOS feature (see the red button in the photo below) that allows the user to summon help in case of an emergency. If you know anyone who is planning a wilderness trip, make sure they own one of these devices. They save lives.
David has the same equipment, so I urge you to consult his website for trip reports, photos and tracking information.
See you in Kathmandu!
Bill
Going over the equipment checklist
All this has to go up the mountain on my back? Yikes!!
Best wishes on your adventure, Bill.
Look forward to your posts via inReach.
k;-)
Bill’s version of “Life Alert”!!!!
Can’t wait to use this new system you have. Be safe daily prayers for all of you
I wish you a safe and a great adventure on your own mountain and will be with you in spirit every step of the way. You’re a true source of inspiration.
God be with you.
How are you keeping your inReach charged? Do you use a solar charger?
Solar chargers. I have a Goal Zero charger and the team will have lots of other chargers.
Good luck, fair weather and a safe journey. You have been an inspiration since my summer clerking at SMRH.
Prayers and best wishes surround you achieving your dream Bill. You continue to touch hearts and minds as you share your life. Here’s to the inspiration you provide and all the good you do coming back to you ten fold on this very special expedition! Blessings, Kathy
Look forward to your new adventure…it will be my favorite site and I will pray for your safety.
Lee
♡♡♡ lots of love from the boys and I!
Bill! What an amazing adventure this will be. God speed and have an incredible time!
:
Best wishes for a successful climb . Will be following your trip with batted breath.
God speed, Bill! We will be following your trip and sending our good wishes, too!
Thanks again Bill for your posts and Again have a wonderful and Safe trip. We all enjoy following along with you immensely especially without a pack!
So Bill, I’m still wondering how you will fit all that clothing and gear in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you…
I am optimistic; best of luck.
Paul
Bill:
We are praying for you and your team for God’s protection and your successful summit of YOUR Mountain.
Wayne
Bill,
You are an inspiration to us all and we are praying for a successful climb! We will follow you everyday.
Garth
God speed and his protection Bill. I share your enthusiasm just by reading your words. One question…how much weight are you carrying? The pile in your picture is daunting enough to look at..without carrying it too. Enjoy and be safe on YOUR mountain.
Bill,
Your “bold stroke” actions amaze and inspire. Soar like an eagle to the summit of Burke–Khang. We will all be following your every move–thanks to your Inreach capability. Safe travels “El Capitan”.
Blessings,
Rick
Good luck my friend!
Be safe!
Have fun!
Wishing you a safe and successful journey!
Looking forward to tagging along (from my home , the easy way) on this journey with you Bill. Safe travels to you and your team👍👍
Wishing you a successful summit on your mountain. As always you are an inspiration. Much love and prayers for a safe journey, MJ
Bill
Gute Reise
Steve
Bill, It is your Canadian follower again… Safe Travels… Thank you so much for that very important information about the InReach Explorer STD (Satellite tracking device)…I am so excited for your expedition, but I also share your sister’s concern that all go well……given your track record, we can see that you have great decision making skills, despite the deep pain of disappointment (that comes with the territory) of having to turn back, being SO close to your destination, in several of your previous attempts to summit.
May the good Lord shine upon you during the next several weeks, and grant everyone watching your ascent and descent, some peace upon your return to the USA.
Much love from CANADA!
Alana
Oh, to have your enthusiasm. You are indeed an inspiration to us old folks. As my grandson told me a few years back “Granny follow your Heart”. Praying the angels have you wrapped in their wings.
Be safe, Annette
Bill,
God Bless you and keep you safe! As always we are greatful for you to allow us to live your adventure vicariously! Enjoy each moment and new vista. – The Iceman