So many of you have expressed interest in Puchanga. Puchanga did summit! He was the last person on the top of Everest this year. Bud said many times that if there was any way possible, he at least wanted Puchanga to get to the top. It was hard for Bud not to make it to the [...]

Talked with Bud this morning.  He is dealing with having to turn around quite well.  There were victories and disappointments yesterday.  He is happy for those that summited and shares in the groans with those that didn’t.  All part of the experience of mountain climbing. He is at Camp 2 and making his way down. [...]

Just talked with Bud.  The winds were blowing in the background almost obliterating his voice.  They are going to wait a few hours in the hopes that the winds will abate enough for a summit bid.  He thinks the chances are 1 in 4.  If they don’t abate, he will not make a summit attempt. [...]

Just received an e-mail from Sharon, Bill’s wife.  She said some are on the move.  We don’t know if that is Bud and Bill or not.  I know the suspense is killing me.  I will let you know when I know something.  I have heard nothing from Bud all day and hope this is a [...]

Bud called this evening and told me he had to turn around about 2,000 feet from the summit.  He experienced some oxygen delivery problems, if I understood him correctly.  Additionally, the winds were still higher than ideal for a safe summit. He will be returning to Base Camp and then home.  I am glad he [...]

I have to admit I did not sleep much last night and it looks like tonight will be much of the same.  Bud called this morning to update me on the summit schedule.  He said they have decided to spend the night at Camp 4 and plan a summit for around 10:00 a.m. our time [...]

Bud called this morning.  He always seems to call about the time I get my food and sit down for breakfast at McDonalds.  Nothing like a cold egg for breakfast!  You know I am just so glad to hear his voice, I don’t care if the egg gets cold. He sounded so excited and strong. [...]

I got a call from Bud this morning updating me on his status.  What a difference a day makes!  He sounded so upbeat and ready to conquer the mountain.  He is continuing up the mountain.  I think I must have misunderstood him yesterday.  Please understand that frequently our phone conversations have gaps that I have [...]

I received a call from Bud this morning and I will try to relate this update as well as I can.  He sounded tired and pretty concerned about some of their team members.  Bud will send an update when he is able and it will probably be more accurate in details.  Bud’s summit team, Team [...]

Bud called at 7:30 this morning to let me know his progress.  They climbed for 9-1/2 hours yesterday all the way to Camp 2.  He said they were pretty tired.  In fact, bed sounded better than food!  I think the word he used was that he was “toasted.”  It is actually hot during the afternoon [...]