I am now staying at the New Kindoroko Hotel in the centre of Moshi (which means 'smoke' in Swahili). The view from the 4th floor summit bar and from my hotel room could not be any better. You do have to check it out in the mornings, however, as by midday clouds form and hang there for the rest of the day until nightfall. Just after sunrise, around breakfast time is perfect. My breath was taken away when I finally saw the mountain in all its glory, although there seems to be a permanent haze and it looks as if its been painted into the skyline. I am already at 1500m above sea level, so the acclimitisation starts now. There is a one day delay on starting my climb so that an Australian lady, Meaghan, can join myself and Kristina, the swedish woman, who has been volunteering in another part of the country. So I will be unable to post blogs, for obvious reasons between 16-21 Jan. There are a few more bits i need before then. I will be taking Connor and Luke up the mountain with me - the school photos that were sent to me by Kirsty with hopefully be stuck on Uruhu Peak and photographed. As long as both my camera, my batteries and my legs hold out. It is going to be difficult but i am sure I can do it. Just got the look out for the all important Altitude Sickness.

Have met some interesting (and attractive) people since getting here. Travelled with Elina, an Italian girl, from Arusha, whose father brews real ale at home. Then met Danie, a New Yorker, who i bonded with straight away. Funny and intelligent, but with a burst eardrum. I was literally the first mzungu she had spoken with yesterday having just completed a successful Kili climb, via the Machame route (same route that i am going). She found it very wet and cold and she struggled, but she did it. I don't care what temporary illnesses i get as long as i get to the summit! We shall see.....

It's Tom's last day today with the kids so i will think of him tonight.

Good news. I have spoken with immigration and they will let me stay for an extra 3 days (visa runs out 21 Jan) at no charge and without having to go into Kenya and back again as a tourist. Despite toying with the idea of going to Zanzibar, I will return on 24 Jan as planned. Although I may regret that decision later.

Ok, so its more relaxing and gentle walks around Moshi for me between now and Tuesday. I am not lonely, I have got some good company here. And although I think about what I have done so far, I don't miss it. I just feel relieved to have got this far. The biggest effort is still to come, however...