Pheriche 4200m (Alpine Zone)

We are above the tree lines, in a village called Pheriche. It is cold up here, it snowed as we approached the village today at about 12:30pm. The views are amazing. I am feeling pretty good (ok), I took some pain killers for the knee and am wearing a knee brace (no luxury of ice up here, but maybe I will go grab some snow ;). I am fighting a sore throat, but that is pretty common up here especially with all of the dust. I am drinking a lot of water, and peeing a lot, taking Diamox every morning and night. Previously I said we would be at base camp on 4/2, but it is actually 4/1. Tomorrow is the toughest day, we ascend to 4900m. It will be the true test, if we acclimatize well with that, then base camp shouldn't be a problem. The group has high spirits and we are enjoying each others company sitting around the stove in the tea house, sipping tea. i am eating very well (we all are), not sure if I am losing weight, doubt it. Had veggie burger and chips for lunch. Having noodle soup and chipati for dinner. Keeping this short as the internet rates at this alt are expensive. Miss you all, and I am snapping pictures. I will try to check in the next chance I get. Oh, and I have learned to use the squat toilets (ewwww). And having increased gas is a symptom of high altitude, so the group knows not to trail to close behind me.