16th September 2007 - Homeward bound

As you read this we will be on a Qatar Airways flight back to the UK.

It has not been an easy couple of weeks, however, in some ways, the story of our expedition has been one of overcoming challenges. Looking back over the past 15days (is that all?!?!?) there have been more ups than downs and each member has had their highlight. As a group we have grown, to work to each others strengths and difficulties to the benefit of the wider team. The selection of members for the overall team has proven spot on in the circumstances.

Last evening, we were rewarded by the trekking company and tourism board, with a team meal as a thanks for percervering; despite the poor weather conditions which hindered the progress of much larger commercial expeditions. We sat round the table and collated our highlights of the past two weeks and these commonly included:

• Our first mountain top moment
• The safe and successful balloon inflation
• Meeting Nepali Scouts in their traditional uniform
• Experiencing a new culture
• Overcoming new challenges
• Working together as a team
• Pushing our bodies to the limit
• Experiencing Mountain life
• The fun we've had together
• Trying and tasting different traditional foods
• The friendliness and welcoming nature of the Sherpas
• Sharing in the Sherpa's environment

and of course not forgetting

• The breath taking view as Mt Everest rose from the clouds at sunrise

This trek just goes to show that no matter what mountains are in the way, nothing can still the determination of many.

The whole team would like to thank Girlguiding UK, our Supporters, and our Sponsors for backing such an ambitious project. We hope this is just the beginning of many similar challenges.

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