there are stone benches cut into walls so porters can drop their heavy loads without having to set them down and pick them up again. much of the time they feel somewhat depressed. the “stars” are calling us, we just have to take the call. the picture looks like they are on sand or ice or even salt. it sound impossible, but once you get started, it’s hard to let go before the 50k mark. by 9am it was already 82°. ever wanted to run away with the circus? 