Cryosphere...

With the cold weather returning yet again, it certainly feels like we're stuck in the cryosphere.  The dictionary defines it as that part of the earth’s surface where, at temperatures below 32°F (0°C), the water is frozen solid. While even a small temperate pond that freezes over in the winter can be considered part of the cryosphere, it mostly refers to large regions covered in snow and ice for much or all of the year. Fairbanks certainly qualifies, but the way some people are reacting to this spring cold spell, it might as well be labeled cry oh dear. But for me, it's just another opportunity to get out for a dog run.

Yesterday we went out with Missy and Gus in lead. Just a short run over to sawmill hill and back. Except for a few icy spots, the trail's still in great shape.

Today it was Earl and Gus in lead. The usual excitement and cacophony hooking up and heading out of the yard, but they quickly settled down to a nice trot. A little warmer today, but still had a nice run with a cool NE breeze blowing. A fine way to end the season, again!

Last dog Run?...

While you're never really sure when it's over, it certainly looks like the dog mushing season is drawing to a close. We did get out a couple of times this week, but with the temps in the 40's today, that might be it.

On Monday's run, Missy may have taken her last run in lead. She turned twelve this year, she was born on Easter, in fact that was her name when we got her, and she's done great. But like a lot of older dogs, she's having trouble on the longer runs because she doesn't want to slow down, so probably gets more tired than she would if she paced herself. Will miss her spunk next year.

Yesterday we ran with the new leaders, Gus and Earl. It's the usual circus going out with this crew, but once we get out of the yard and over the hill, they calm down and do great.

Rudy the meathead, as he's known for his goofy antics, might have gone on his last run too. A good, dependable team dog, we got him the same year as Missy. He'll be twelve this summer and while not as driven as her, we'll miss him in the team next year.

April's Fool Weather...

April started off seasonably warm, but recently we've had a cold spell with temp's down below zero at night.  While that'd normally be a bad thing, everyone looks forward to spring, it gives me a few more weeks to run the dogs. We've also had several inches of snow, so the icy spots on the trail from the earlier warm spell have been covered up. This gives the dogs and sled a lot more traction, especially on the hills..

Taking a break on the way back home. Missy just turned twelve, we think, since we got her as an adult, and she's still running in lead like she's done for years. She's an animal!

The boys and girl on the way home. Mac and Earl are no longer pups and now run in the team as working adults. It's only when you stop that you need to keep an eye on them, especially Earl, cause you're never quite sure what he'll do, chew a line , wrestle with Gus, or just start bangin' to go. Keeps me guessing!