Well, this is it.

After weeks of scurrying around trying to get everything ready, I am still scurrying around at the eleventh hour. I have yet to gather all my vital paperwork, or organize anything. I then need to cram a mountain of stuff into my suitcases and backpack (sit on them first), and then drive the two hours to Tacoma, sleep, and fly out in the morning. So, please understand that this will be a shortie.

I’ll be doing Orphans Africa project work in Tanzania through August 13, at which time I’ll fly from Dar es Salaam to Arusha to climb Kilimanjaro. You can stay tuned to our expedition’s progress via a cybercast at www.AlpineAscents.com/kilimanjaro-cybercast.asp. Each day there will be a summary of what we’ve accomplished, where we’re at and how we’re faring, plus brief daily dispatches given by the team via phone and then relayed through the cybercast. (FYI — the lack of a current cybercast does not indicate a problem with the team. Mom . . . don’t panic.)

Thanks to all of you who’ve sent me your well wishes and who are offering your prayerful support for me, my OA team, and the expedition. I am truly humbled. You are the best, and I love you all.

Michele