Most people think of mushing as a solitary activity, and in a sense they are right.

Hours on the trail without other people or signs of civilization; save the occasional trail marker or the tracks of another sled. You get to experience Mother Nature at her finest & her most foul moods.  ( I was recently interviewed along with fellow mushers Jeff King and Brent Sass about just that for a article in the Alaska Dispatch on the Science of Dog Mushing in Alaska) You see places few people travel, and do so at a speed that gives you the opportunity to take it all in.

But from my perspective, I am never alone. First and foremost there is the team in front of me. I would not, could not, have the honor of doing what I do without them. I love them dearly and they are the worlds finest traveling companions. But also equally important is the team behind me. The many wonderful sponsors that make up Team Dew Claw. I wanted to take a break from Iditarod preparations today to give a huge shout out to some new and returning Team Dew Claw members. Having this wonderful team behind me makes it possible for me and the kids to participate in Iditarod and other events. And with the support of an awesome team, you are never alone.

So join me in thanking and welcoming: Teresa & Jamie Hollingsworth, Cynthia Lawrence Calkins & family, Mary L Brashler, & Gail Lieurance. Also Mush Thanks to renewed support and encouragement from: Marlys  Sauer and Pendra King. Of course we want to thank our families: Nancy Bailey & Forest Miller, Virginia Pond, and Margaret Thornton. While talking to my mom on the phone the other day she said it best, “you know we are with you every step of the way”