If possible, try not to get too het up about the journo's - they've got a job to do, same as you. It's just their job is what other people would call nosiness, coupled with the fact that they are trying to get the most interesting story quicker, and preferably exclusively, than their rivals. If they want to ask you questions, think how you would respond to someone doing the same who was a "nodding acquaintance" and know town gossip in your home town. Knowing you (from your postings!) you would be polite, answer their questions as much as you'd want a relative stranger to know, and leave it at that. If they persisted in wanting to know more, I'm sure you'd be able to make it courteously clear that that was it. If they still didn't get the hint you would be justified in becoming as rude as they are back (wouldn't you?). And if they still persisted - you'd call the police and do them for harrassment!

It's no different with journalists - they ARE human beings, treat them with courtesy as you would wish to be treated yourself, and if they don't respond in kind - show them the alternative! I'd also be inclined to refer them to the expedition people, they've got people who are experts in dealing with the press.

Best of luck Barbara, and it really won't last long. As for your song (your gonna hate me for this) - just think of the Mother Superior in The Sound of Music and (ahem!) "Climb Every Mountain" !!!

Mo