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Since I couldn't sleep, I got up at 5AM and walked around. The morning had dissipated the fog cover and you could see all around. There were about 5 waterfalls all around the camp. The clouds were beneath us as if we were floating on them. Gorgeous, isn't it?!
On this day, Dan showed us how to get into rope teams and use our ice axes and crampons. Rope teams are assembled to prevent any member from falling into a crevasse through self-arrest and setting up a belay system. At the end of the day, we got to do a multi-pitch ice climb! It was calf-blazing hard...but absolutely worth it. You can be sure that your adrenaline is on over-drive at this point.
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Throughout the whole trip, I got to know Dan and his style of leadership better. I would describe him as funny, humble, caring and genuinely sincere. He would make rounds every morning and night to every team member to see how they were doing. When we asked him about his climbing adventures on Mt. Everest or Ama Dalbam...he doesn't go around praising his successes but tells us about the expeditions from the team's perspective. I have to say that Dan earned respect from every single person on the trip. What an incredible guy! He organized this whole thing, taught us about mountaineering, and let us use his equipment (tents, cooking stoves, fuel) all for free. He does it, because he loves it! I am so grateful for have gotten to opportunity to climb with someone like him.
It wonderful to see people like, Dan Mazur, who generously share their time and knowledge to helps people like me further our passions for climbing!
On the last day, our group summitted Mt. Rainer (14,500ft) at 9AM. I lost a toe nail, but gained so many memories...thank to everyone for making its a trip of a lifetime :)
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