Hi Allison,

I suggest reviewing the post by Kurt Wedberg on the Whitney Portal message board: http://www.mountwhitneyforum.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=104341#Post104341
Pay special attention to his cautions about hiking in crampons, and self arrest using an Ice Axe. These skills both require practice, and could be life saving skills (self arrest in particular).

You can check out his references at: http://www.sierramountaineering.com Click on "About"

I personally like your agenda, provided you do not freeze to death while overnighting 😱 This "slow and steady" pace should help to minimize the chance of Altitude sickness. It should also provide opportunities to practice your crampon/IceAxe skills. If you cannot get comfortable (with confidence) with these skills, you can always turn back. And, if you do develop Altitude Sickness symptoms, you can also always turn back.

Best of luck.

John