Shaktoolik is no longer going to be the place of epic winds in my mind. Recently it became sponsored, and will now hold a place near and dear in my heart.
If you read my earlier blog, Some Nights, you already know what Shaktoolik has always stuck out in my mind for. But starting this year it will mean much more. Cue the music on the video, and read on my friends.
My mom, knowing this has always been a challenging checkpoint for me decided this year when I traveled there that I should remember the amazing people who supported and encouraged me in this life and are now all watching over me. My father, my grandfather, and my step-father, three very strong and determined men. I am my fathers stubborn daughter. And my grandfather will always hold a special place in my heart for the role he played in my life, he was the outdoors-man of the family and gave me my love of fishing and hunting. He was the only family member who did not think it entirely crazy when I packed it all up and moved to Alaska. Then there is my step-father ‘Captain’ Forrest, who added so much to our family with his humor and love of the ocean. This is a sponsorship that touches my heart deeply. I am truly blessed to have this reminder from my mom, and can not thank her enough for it; to be reminded that I am watched over. I Love You Mom!
The next two weeks are crazy busy at Dew Claw, it is drop bag time. EVERYTHING we will need for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod must be Purchased, Prepared, and Packed. Because if we need it on the trail we have to have it now. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. There is so much to be done. In some ways drop bag time seems just as stressful as the actual race. This makes the Shaktoolik sponsorship even more timely, as now is when we are investing so much into our races. Perfect timing, if you will, to know that someone is watching over me. Knowing that is what I find myself focusing on, tonight as I head to bed.
I Love You Mom, Dad, Grandpa, and Forrest
~ Mush Thanks!
You can learn more about Checkpoint Sponsorships here.
