Day 8 - December 18

Up 6am and a 3 hour, relatively easy hike to camp, however, Zak was sick (ha) so shut up for once. The rest of us were slow because my legs, quads were starting to seize up.

Once we made it to the bottom (best site ever!), there was an hour bus ride to Springlands Hotel. However, we stopped on the way because the young Army pukes needed money for tip. c Didn't ask if anyone else needed to get their bank card first. Afew hours after we arrived at the hotel, we started to gather for the awards (presentation of official certificate). Guess who were loudly arguing about what was enough…Please understand, it is very clear in the pre-paperwork what is expected for tip and how to pay it.

I wanted to tip separately as I didn't want to be embarrassed by these bufoons anymore. McAlister, the older South African Brit living in Canada, took over thank God. He is a CA. So he figured it out (the middle of recommended and minimum due to all the complaining) and put the money in appropriate envelopes for the Head guide, assistant guides, cook, servers and porters. These porters are paid ~$1 US dollar per DAY and the other get slightly more. Right or wrong, they all depend on tips. I gave extra to Chambo and assistant guides and the servers, they were so wonderful to us! The award ceremony was great, what a feeling of accomplishment! Afterwards, the 'spoiled crew' sat and drank a whole bunch of beers each, then went out for dinner.... but some didn't put the full amount of tip in...unbelievable!

Mary and I had a discussion as she felt the same - these kids today are narcissistic beyond words - it's all about me. They have a good portion of their expenses paid by the United States taxpayers, but cannot leave a full tip. Sarah snarled to me," it's according if you can afford it or not" to which I replied, almost yelled - If you can't afford a trip, don't go on it!!!

I stayed at hotel for dinner, by myself! I wanted to tip some of the kid serving us there that were so kind and hard working with so little expectations. You have to understand, $5,000 TNZ shillings can mean the world to them and it's $3.33 Canadian for me, whatever. At dinner, I met 2 fellows, scientists from Switzerland, climbing the mountain the next day. They asked for some advise and I strongly advised them to rent more socks, a water proof bag for duffel, gaiters and gave him some of my electrolyte tablets and Cliff bars as he didn't like drinking water. He was so surprised and wanted to pay - my only request…please tip generously at the end and pay it forward. I am so glad I am more mature…which means older…the little things!