Catching up a bit

So the team has been busy since John had to leave... they moved up to 14,000 camp a couple of days ago, and for the last 2 days have been trying to break trail up to the 16,5000 ft level where they join the West Rib route.  There has been a lot of new snow which not only makes the trail breaking more difficult, but makes it more dangerous as new snow avalanches are more likely.  They have been poking around towards the W. Rib, but due to the snow and avalanche conditions they have decided not to go up that route, but to attempt to reach the summit via the West Buttress.  They are a bit disappointed no to be able to climb the more difficult route, but should have a good shot at summitting on the West Buttress.  

They plan to move to high camp at 17,000 ft tomorrow.