Every year when my Winter guest leave, it takes a little while to get back to the routine of kennel life by myself. 
 In the past the solitude of the forest never bothered me, actually I relished it.
However, rhythm  of life with sled dogs demands that you get back into the routines of kennel life.
The dogs again offer me the comfort of companionship that will see me through this period of separation.
This week was spent with kennel cleanup and interaction with dogs in a very relaxed atmosphere. 
The Spring thaw continues, the creatures of the forest are scurrying around building their nest for the birth of their young, some of the early migratory birds have returned and the trees are getting ready to bud.
The return of snow on Saturday indicates that Winter is not willing to relinquish her grip. 
This week was not without its challenges as experienced on Friday.
It was supposed to be uneventful day going to the village to change to the Summer tires on the truck. But, on the way home the drivers side front tire came off the truck creating a very dangerous situation. Luckily, I was safe and the truck received no damage.
As fate would have it, a couple of good Samaritans came by and helped me get the truck mobile so I could return to the garage in the village to rectify the problem.
This could have been a tragic accident; but, as fate would have it, all turned out okay.
An occurrence like this certainly sets one sights on reflection and appreciation of life.  
I have been fortunate to always, although sometimes difficult, to retain a positive outlook  and appreciate life's offerings.
Until next week.......

It was a great week here with some nice Spring like weather.
It was a week here of clean up in the kennel, garage and the chalet.
Yes, Winter activities leaves its mark on the kennel with surplus straw being buried under the snow only to reveal itself with the Spring thaw. The dogs enjoy this clean up, as they solicit and get extra attention when cleaning their area. All the left over straw was removed from the dog houses for the Summer. 
 The new dog houses with the removable roofs and the insulated floors made a big difference this Winter in the dogs comfort also facilitating for a much easier clean up. All Winter long the straw stayed dry adding warmth for the dogs through this long, cold Winter. The new insulated houses also made it easier to maintain the dogs weight through out the running season.
The garage was reorganized to move the snow machines, placing them out of the way, and moving the ATV's into their off season spots for easier access.
Sleds were stored for the Summer, harnesses cleaned and ganglines placed in storage awaiting the commencement of Fall training.
We also had time to relax and enjoy some Sun and warmer temperatures on the deck overlooking the lake.
The snow is slowly disappearing and the lake is still frozen. I beleave the ice on the lake is still about 2' thick. Depending on the temperatures, it could take until mid-May before the ice is gone this year.
Life in the kennel returns to its relaxed off season pace.
Until next week.......
 

All the above images are by Lila Prat. They are her reflection of the time spent here at Miortuk this year. Lila has captured what life in a Sled Dog Kennel is really like. You can see more of her beautiful work & read her Blog @ http://arretetesbetises.blogspot.fr/
It was week of mixed weather with very warm days, snow, rain & strong winds. However, the snow is slowly melting & there are some signs that it is Spring!
The dogs are learning to relax after a busy Winter and are basking in the sunshine lying on the roof of their houses.
This is a slow time of the year here in the Northern Forest.
Until next week..........

This weeks posting of a life a dog,Katie, and her journey through life up to today!
The above series of photos documents Katie's life from a puppy to the beautiful Sled Dog she has become.
Katie this Winter became united with her new Musher, Lila, and with her started her journey to France and her new life.
Lila came this Winter to fulfill her dream of starting her own kennel in France with Katie being the matron of the new pack.
Both Lila & Katie had a couple of months bonding and running in a 6 dog team her at Miortuk.
However, last Tuesday evening Katie got loose through the evening and wondered off getting lost in a new location she was not yet familiar with.
Lila was in despair being separated from Katie and seeing her dream being shattered! After several days of continuous searching, posting fliers, contacting numerous groups in both France and Switzerland; Lila's persistence paid off.  Katie was found  and reunited with Lila.
This was an incredible story of the kindness, caring and support of many people as well as organization from both Countries. On the France Mushing Site over 1000 people were involved with the search in one way or another.
The outpouring of support over Facebook was absolutely amazing.
A big thank you has to given the the man that found, retrieved and reunited her with Lila on Saturday.
Now Katie safe at home with Lila and an incredible bonding has taken place. 
I am overwhelmed by the kindness and support of so many. It certainly has renewed my faith in the kindness and generosity of the human race to come together when there is a need. 
This a great news story with a very happy beginning for a beautiful young lady, her dog and their pursuance of a DREAM!
Until next week.......