We had one last “Map Time with Mingma” before we set out today.   One last inspirational talk from our fearless leader about the ups and downs of the walk, and life.

And it was just that.  A series of ups and downs  before a long uphill to lunch.  A perfect metaphor for life.

We followed Bob, the pace zopkyo, for a while today.  He led us well and only missed one prayer wheel.   Not bad for a zopkyo.   No doubt his owner was looking far and wide for him later in the day, unless he had the sense to return home.

We crossed under the memorial gate into Lukla and I was elated.    I was relieved.  I was exhausted.   And I cried.   Not the first time on this trek.  Not the last time in this lifetime.

And then it was time for more Sherpa shandies in the Irish bar (one of two in Lukla, together with a a Scottish bar)!  Amazing.

Tomorrow we fly back to KTM and real life.