Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition Dispatch
November 14, 2011 – Ana’s Birthday at Cotopaxi Hut
Today was Ana’s birthday, so we prepared a birthday party for her. We all participated: Yuki exhausted his lungs by blowing up the balloons (not an easy feat at this elevation!) and Bill stayed in the room making sure that Ana and Andrew wouldn’t come down before we were 100% prepared.
Bottom line, we succeeded in making a surprise. We had a delicious birthday cake and Ana made sure to make a wish before blowing out the candles.
The candle was a big hit. It was the kind that plays “Happy Birthday” when you light it. Usually people just think that the candle is cool and they start eating the cake, but with a table of scientists the candle had to be analyzed and studied. Each person had their opinion on how the candle works. Check out the video below and see which version you think is the correct one!
After cake, we all went outside to enjoy the amazing views of Cotopaxi and the sun which we haven’t seen much of this past week.
We ate a very early lunch and then the team drove to the foot of Cotopaxi where they prepared to hike to the high camp hut. Summit day is tomorrow!
The colorful table is ready – bring in the birthday girl!
Ana is making her secret birthday wish.
Andrew, Leila and Ana enjoying the party.
Yuki ponders how the singing candle works.
Osvaldo, always the fashionista, wears two hats at once.
Bill and Yuki pick out their favorite snacks to bring up Cotopaxi.
Ana and Andrew soak up some sun while Cotopaxi reveals herself behind them.
The team enjoying the sun for a change.
Joaquin and Leila – those clowns!
Bill with Cotopaxi which stands at an impressive 19,348ft/5,897m.
Looking back at our lodge
Now that is one symmetrical volcano. Looks like Osvaldo’s two-hat trend is catching on.
Cotopaxi awaits us!