Day 4 - The Coldest Day

It was now half way through our week and we were ready to "hit the trail" and see some of the mountains and people of central Kyrgyzstan.

When we left on Wednesday morning from the guest house, we had on 2 layers of clothes. We drove about 90 minutes to where we would get our horses and start the trek and upon our arrival, the wind was so cold and harsh, we opened our packs and began to put on most every layer we had brought with us. In our family, we each had on 2 pairs of pants, 2 pairs of socks, and 5 layers on top...a short sleeved shirt, a long sleeved shirt, a fleece/sweatshirt, a coat, and a rain/wind jacket along with a hat. 

Yes, in mid June, it was that cold up in those mountains. At our highest point, we were at about 3300 meters in altitude or over 10,000 feet.

Our view as we were starting out; clear, cool and breezy!

On the trail, you can see how we're all bundled up and the horse's tail is blowing in the wind.

One of the valleys we passed through where we were protected from the wind a little bit.

Our horses, on their lunch break.

Our guides, Azis and his older brother, Azamat, brought bread, tomatoes, pickles, apples, bananas, oranges, sausage, and cheese. We ate well in the mountain valley.

Heading back out again for the rest of our ride.

At the top of one of the hills. 

In total we rode about 4 hours on this first day.

We've arrived! 

This is our camp for the night. We were so thankful for a sweet place to rest and a chance to stretch our legs.

I just like this image of old and new...a yurt and a pair of sunglasses stuck through the cord.

My girl, always bringing me flowers.

My two "biggest boys"...Krypto has really been growing.

Gwangi, down by the creek, picking up special rocks.

Taking a creek break.

Sissi and her friend, washing rocks and picking flowers.

I really love these little purple flowers.

And, my other favorites are these yellow wild flowers.

A peaceful view of my girl, as we're waiting for dinner to be prepared.

The sun is starting to set, our horses are free to graze, and we're relaxing by the yurt before dinner.

A lovely view!

In the yurt, it's time for Plov!

A family meal that was enjoyed by everyone!

The sun is now almost down and we're so thankful for a safe trek, a lovely setting, and our Father's grace during another day.