COVER STORY
other mushers of the potential danger, might they come our way. I boarded my ski-rungs, pulled the anchor-stake, and shouted, “Hike”! Tiffany made a hard “Gee” (to the right) with the team, and we are off again. We were reaching the bay, a new area now, so I searched for a sheltered place to protect us from a rising wind. I found one against a snow and ice embankment. It was time for food and a short rest for the dogs. Staying in their traces, I fed the dogs, a small meal for now. Their big meal would be at the end of our trip, for the day. As I fed, I petted each one. When I got to Tiffany, I gave a royal hug! They then hunkered down in the snow for warmth and took their short nap. I quickly provided my own provisions. Protein is most important! I had brought a small steak and made a small fire with a camp oven… Eating the meat as soon it was chewable, otherwise it would rapidly freeze. Within the hour we were off mushing at a good pace. The snow was more packed and there was more
her direction. So I stepped forward 2 feet and jab the prod pole through the snow. Beyond the snow, solid ground. Tiffany continues to look forward a little distance. So I stepped forward a little more cautiously. And I jab my pole again. I hear ice crack below the snow. I look at Tiffany! I bend down and hug her. “You’ve probably saved us, Ol’ Girl”! The other dogs now, know
our pace and the silent appreciation of our surroundings and our togetherness. There is a peace within. There is a spectacular partnership and a relationship with the musher and the dogs. Our lives depend upon each other in sometimes hostile situations. We move along making good time, when, suddenly, Tiffany stops the team. “Hike, Tiffany”, I say. She does not
“There is a spectacular partnership and a relationship with the musher and the dogs. Our lives depend upon each other in sometimes hostile situations.”
something is not right. They are actually quiet! “OK”, I say to Tiffany. “Take us where you want us to go”! I slog back to the sled, grateful! “The wolf in her has surely saved us”, I knew! At the sled I replaced the prod pole, and picked up a long thin aluminum pole with an orange flag attached. I put it to the side of our trail, deep in the snow, to warn
move I drive the anchor-stake into the ground, step off the ski rungs, and pick up my prod pole from the sled, as I slog through the snow almost up to my knees. She turns her head towards me and waits patiently. As I approach, she wags her tail in greeting. “What’s the matter, Ol’ girl”, I asked, as I pet her head. She looks straight ahead. My eyes follow
EC Magazines | Christmas Edition 2021 62
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