This has created quite a problem of deforestation especially in the
sensitive higher elevations where plant survival is marginal at best. So
much so, that the Nepalese government decreed that nothing that is
green can be cut. Good idea, except that the porters get around this
little law by burning first and coming back later to cut that which
is no longer green!
The larger boulders provide the shelter under their curved sides and
the wood: heat. Sleeping bags are not often available, so they share
blankets and snuggle tightly together for warmth. At two dollars a
day it hardly seems worth it, but through it all, that cheerful
disposition proves otherwise. As Dawa says, if they were unhappy,
they would not come - makes sense to me.
My
hair has been driving me crazy. It has been a while since it has
been washed and the hair is matted and my scalp itchy. The Hongu
Koala is close by but it is edged with ice and probably running
colder then freezing. But I am desperate, so with soap in hand
and a brave soul I trundle down to the creek. I pour the liquid freeze over my head. The suds come with difficulty but the headache is instant,
and numbness seems to penetrate to the core of my brain, but
once the pain subsides I feel like a new man. Ahhhhhhhh. Now
for the rinse!
