Once the prayer portion of the ceremony was done, tsampa (like flour) was good naturedly applied to everyone’s face and then the eating and drinking part began. A large bucket of chang disappeared along with beer, Sherpa cake, cookies and other treats. A lot of work went into preparing the festivities and then cleaning it all up again. Possibly due to the chang, the camp was very quiet all afternoon.

One or two groups headed up into the Ice Fall during the day and others played on some small ice faces nearby. Our beautiful sunny morning turned to clouds and some light snowfall. Dick is laying out his gear and eagerly anticipating heading into the Ice Fall tomorrow.