Denali Journal, Day 19: Base Camp to Talkeetna

We woke up to a beautiful day at Base Camp today--a pure blue sky!  Shortly after 10:00, the beautiful site of the Hudson Air Service ski plane was upon me--it landed and picked me up along with some other guys from the Climbers for Christ group.  We got in to Talkeetna at about 11:00ish.  Once at the hanger, it felt really awkward to get out of the ski plane with down booties on and a big puffy -40 degree down jacket on, but I managed!  After tidying up some things at Hudson, I went straight for the Roadhouse to get a "Full Standard" breakfast, coffee, and my fill of goodies.  I also stopped in at the Park Service to let them know that I was back early and to give them an update.  

I can't stop thinking about the rest of the team up at Camp IV--I hope they summit and that they are don't push it too hard.  Also, I worry about the 2 missing Japanese climbers.  I have to admit also, that coming back to civilization, with all its creature comforts, stings a bit while my team is still up there--I miss Dan and the rest of the gang already!  I guess it's just the "post-expedition/race" funk--I used to get it a lot after adventure races, where I would feel worn out, a bit emotional, and with an empty "what next" feeling in my gut.  Something tells me it won't be long before that void is filled!