New Year's Eve at Plaza Argentina

Wes and Dan have made it to base camp, Plaza Argentina (elevation 13,750 feet). Yesterday they hiked to Casa de Piedra. It took about six hours. It sounded like the day went smoothly for them. Today they left Casa de Piedra at 7:30 am. They followed a river along the cliffs all the way up to camp. Wes said the scenery was spectacular. They also had a river crossing today. The water was about 35 degrees. They saddled up a couple of mules and crossed the river. They arrived at Plaza Argentina at about 2:00 pm. Wes said the weather was really nice today. It was sunny and mild. It wasn't hot but they felt like they were roasting due to the radiant heat. Right now it is about 40 to 45 degrees (at 10:00 pm). Wes said there are quite a few tents in camp - mostly large expedition type igloo tents that belong to the various guide services. They got their tent set up in a very nice spot. Their guide service cooked them dinner. Dan and Wes were able to eat in one of the expedition tents and sit on real chairs and eat at a table - a nice little luxury. Wes said they had meat, potatoes, eggs, and peppers. He said the meal was really good. Dan bought two beers so they plan to bring in the New Year with a toast! The mules are now gone. They won't be back until it is time to go down the mountain. The guys are on their own now with all of their gear. Tomorrow will be a rest and acclimatization day. On Friday they plan to climb to Camp I (16,200 feet) and make a cache. They will then go back down to Plaza Argentina and spend the night. On Saturday the plan is to move to Camp I. Wes and Dan are both feeling great. I have passed on the messages that have been posted so they know you are thinking of them.