The days are long, but we seem to fill them all up. Last Monday marked the summer solstice. While there is technically a sunrise and sunset time, it is never dark. I have also seen the fireweed blooms start to appear. There is a part of me that feels panicked about both of these signs. When the fireweed gets to the top of its shoot it is indicative of the end of summer. I do not think this panic is a reluctance for winter to come as much as a reluctance for summer to go. I am always looking for more time. Did I get everything done that I needed to? Did I make the most of each moment with my family? Can my son stay small just a little bit longer?
Both Max and the puppies are growing fast. Max has learned to ride his bike and drive his new side by side (just like dad!) While Mike did grumble a little asking why would Max need a toy when he has a real one, Mike showed extreme pride in Max’s driving skills. He goes forward, backward, and tries to drive through the tundra just as he has seen Mike do.
The puppies are playing, eating, and growing. “I” names are coming soon. We are looking forward to taking them on walks on the trail. To get ready, we are teaching them to follow us. Watch a really cute video of Max and the puppies in action on YouTube by clicking here. (Thanks Amanda for the great video!)
Saturday was a big day for Thomas. He signed on the dotted line putting his name on the roaster for this year’s Iditarod. He will be running with many of the young dogs in the kennel. Arson and Anvil, son’s of Iowa have stepped up to become his main leaders. Aided by the feisty Yesman, they are working hard at becoming a team, both human and canine.
Mike did not add his name to the Iditarod signups. While he has until December 1st to make up his mind, he wants to focus on Idita-Dad this year. Max has been joining Mike on many of the training runs this summer. Mike wants to foster Max’s enjoyment of training dogs without overwhelming him with the extreme hours of training and extreme measures of cold that preparing for the Iditarod requires.
Mike is also focused on developing our young dogs. It has been 11 years since we moved to Alaska. Many of the dogs who were the core of our team for so many years are reaching the stage where they wish to runs shorter distances. Lugnut, Ozzy, Twain, and Patton, dogs who have been with us for so many incredible experiences are making way for young stars stepping up to the trail.
The cycle of life and the cycle of seasons continues in the kennel. We have said goodbye to one of our long time friends. Lisbon was in one of our very first litters. Out of kennel matriarch Kanga, Lisbon’s litter has been special since they were born. Lisbon herself was mother to many of the dogs currently on our team. She will remain forever in our hearts, leaping up to kiss you in the face and beg for your attention.
Until next time, I hope you are having as much fun with your dogs as we are with ours.
Mike, Caitlin, and Max