Preparation complete.

Today we climbed up to the Pastukhova rocks at 15,000 feet. We lingered there for about an hour before heading back down to high camp at 11,800. The whole purpose of this was to acclimatize our bodies to the high altitude. This was our last such conditioning climb. Tomorrow we will rest, then leave for the summit at about 3:00 A.M. the next day(Tuesday, August 3rd). Since we are 11 hours ahead of Bellingham time that means we will leave for the summit at 4 P.M. Monday PST. Ankita's foot problem flared up again today, preventing her from completing the last 600 feet of the climb. Alex suggested a Doctor look at Ankita's foot. When we pointed out that Richard is a Doctor, Alex shook his head "No No No. PROFESSIONAL Doctor," he said. Richard was a good sport allowing the group a laugh at his expense. Richard and Mike have worked out a treatment plan that will still give Ankita a chance at the summit. The rest of the team is in good shape. Kudos to Ed for turning in a solid performance thus far on his first climb! At this point the weather forecast for our summit day looks very workable. By the by, our Team Guide Mike Roberts is posting his own updates on the group daily. You can follow these at adventureconsultants.com go to "dispatches" , then "current expeditions", then "Elbrus". All for now from this tiny steel box in the sky we call home.