Hello Laurel.

We are in Pangoma village in Nepal, at 2850 metres. I am with a group of 6 members from New South Wales in Australia. Our trek is dedicated to the dearly departed Australian Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin. He will be missed, and we send our condolences to his family.

Its the third day of our trek to 6500 metre Mera Peak, and today was a stunning day of walking through huge forests of rhododendron, evergreen oak trees and tiny villages on steep slopes. This afternoon we were "blessed" by a storm of hail mixed with rain. Hopefully tomorrow will bring fair weather.

Here are the photo of our trip.

PA190454: Local kids goofing for the camera in Puiyan, just beofre going to school.

PA190456: Kristen Murray, Stuart Murray's daughter, enjoying the view at a break along the trail.

PA190457: Ferro watches while Stuart takes a photo of our staff Bir Kaji Shrestha and leader Rajan Thapa crossing a bridge over a waterfall in the background of the photo.

PA190459: A farmer in Pangoma plowing his fields with oxen.

PA190460: Today is Tihar, a multi-day Hindu festival. The Pangoma kids turned out in force for dancing and singing.

Any news on the possibility of our team members families being able to watch the team's progress on the internet?

Thanks again for all of your help! -Dan