And We’re Off!
Yesterday was the official start of the Iditarod, world’s greatest dog sled race. Our hearts are with Snowhook – “our” wonderfully gritty and humane team up there in Alaska. Rebecca’s the CEO and she’s very kindly volunteered to send in reports.
Welcome new friends (in the gallery) Kink and Chet (yes!), Sherman, fellow Slim Jim fan.
And now – over to Rebecca. Here she is with AJ at the start yesterday (photo courtesy of Oley Howler’s Pop):
The field of teams left the restart, the real start, of the Iditarod beginning mid-Sunday afternoon and Snowhook was among them. Shortly after 3 p.m., the team left the starting line among the cheers of the crowd and the support of the Plunderers.
Who is Snowhook’s starting line up?
Clyde (rookie)
Jem
Bjourn
Lefty
Frank
Rio
Quigley
Natty
Josephine
Twig
Marco
Garrett
Charlie
Fritz
Louisa Mae
Orion
As we stood at the starting line, waiting for the countdown to begin, I asked AJ if he wanted to walk up and check the team. It is something he’s done in past years. This year was different. “No. I’m having a hard time holding them back.” It was true. The team barked and pounded their harnesses as the announcer read AJ’s bio and eventually began the countdown. AJ’s plan is to pace the team despite the desire to go and go fast.
It was great to share the emotions and excitement of the starting line with the Plunderers both in person and those with the team in spirit.
Tags: AJ, Iditarod, plunderers, Rebecca
This entry was posted on Monday, March 3rd, 2014 at 9:19 am and is filed under Chet The Dog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
9:20 am on March 3rd, 2014
Thank Dog for Ray! Great film of the start and it made us feel worlds better to see it.
9:24 am on March 3rd, 2014
Good morning, Race Fans! Our team is doing great. I didn’t realize that Clyde is a rookie, but I am in love with that dog. What a lover!
9:28 am on March 3rd, 2014
Charlie made the team!!
Thank you for the report Rebecca and Spence. (And to Ray: Thank you for the wonderful video of Snowhook’s start.)
I received a musher alert from the Iditarod Insider that the team checked into Unalakleet at 11:14 PM yesterday Alaska time.
Good morning all.
9:57 am on March 3rd, 2014
Greetings!
To the Plunderers in Alaska, Thanks for the great reporting, pictures and video of the Plunderfest 2014!
Hope youse that are sneezing and coughing are on the way to tip-top!
GO SNOWHOOK!
9:59 am on March 3rd, 2014
HRH, B, Charlie will probably have many stories to tell about the race when he returns to your easy chair.
10:11 am on March 3rd, 2014
Ray’s video was top notch. Great start to the race, and we wish them success today.
Were those some of the Plunderers with the dogs at the start line? Saw one bearded guy – was that Daddy Dawg?
10:13 am on March 3rd, 2014
The team is into the Finger Lake checkpoint. Yeep!
10:15 am on March 3rd, 2014
Ray’s video yesterday at the restart was a true sanity saver for the Plunderers and much appreciated.
Thank you Howlers’ Pop!!
B: Heh. We received that same wacky update from our trusty friends at the Insider this morning.
Dima, Bear and I were quite unprepared for news of our team’s early arrival. They must have flown like the wind because they are way, way ahead of everyone.
I do believe that from now on we will rely solely on the reports from our Pixie.
BSD awoke at some undogly hour this morning so we, no doubt, won’t hear from him for awhile.
10:17 am on March 3rd, 2014
Whitey-Lance! I just saw you at the top! How apropos is that?
10:21 am on March 3rd, 2014
Good morning, everyone! Exciting day yesterday standing on a frozen lake for 5+ hours. OH’s mom was kind enough to share her germs with me so I am going in search of a doc in a box today. Oh, the insider isn’t working here either (still).
Have a mushing Monday.
10:25 am on March 3rd, 2014
Herds Mom: Mushing Monday! How Purrfect.
You and all the others at Plunderfest. Feel better soon.
10:47 am on March 3rd, 2014
What is the problem with the Insider? I’m going to write to them asking about the error in the musher alert message to see what they say.
10:57 am on March 3rd, 2014
B&M, That bearded man was Mick, the person. He and his wife Jodi , are friends of the giant and our Pixie. They are truly nice people.
11:03 am on March 3rd, 2014
Wose, thank you, that makes more sense that it would be Mick. Now that I think of it, didn’t Daddy Dawg stay back at the Hobbit House?
11:04 am on March 3rd, 2014
We are going to send a can of Raid to the Insider folks so they can GET THE FREAKIN’ BUGS OUT!
Harrumph.
11:05 am on March 3rd, 2014
Insider!….Anyone have any inside news on the Insider?….sniff!sniff!….It won’t even come up at all for me….sob!
11:05 am on March 3rd, 2014
YEEEP!…spit!
11:07 am on March 3rd, 2014
Hello All–I add my thanks for yesterday’s starting prayer, and for the gorgeous photos and coverage. Does anyone have photos of Josephine and Louisa May? (I continue to follow with excitement, despite not understanding everything that’s going on.)
11:09 am on March 3rd, 2014
Are you sure Natasha is wearing purple Uggs? Dawson and I could have sworn we saw her with knee-high 3″ platform boots at the re-start yesterday but she slipped away before we could confirm. And yes, there was lovely fur around the tippy top of the boots (you can’t make this stuff up!)
11:15 am on March 3rd, 2014
Security allowed the O’Howlers to go down into the chute–hence the video as they passed close by. If the insider ever shows AJ’s departure, Eileen should be seen on one side and Ray on the other close to AJ and the sled as they start.
Last day for some of the Plunderers. Hope we can celebrate two birthdays: Ray and Sharon. More later.
11:19 am on March 3rd, 2014
Regarding the Unstable Insider: There are Comments on the Iditarod Trail Committee’s facebookie page saying the Insider is Down. AGAIN.
WE WANT OUR MONEY BACK!!!
11:20 am on March 3rd, 2014
Happy Birthdays to our Plunderfest Guy & Gal!!!
11:28 am on March 3rd, 2014
Bear!…I doubt there is a Money Back Guarentee…sniff!…I wish there was an alternative website to give them some competition….grump!
11:29 am on March 3rd, 2014
The Insider will be getting an email from me in the next few months explaining why I won’t be renewing my subscription next year. That money will be much better spent donating it to Husky Rescue in NM.
Thanks for the list of the Snowhook dogs that made the team this year. GO SNOWHOOK!!!
11:32 am on March 3rd, 2014
Very unhappy comments on F/b to say the least.
We don’t dare refresh the Insider for fear it will not come back up. Having said that…it isn’t of much use right now because the only thing refreshing on the GPS tracker page is the counter ticking the minutes away…still it does offer some sense of security, albeit a false one.
11:33 am on March 3rd, 2014
I’m proud that Jem and his nose made the A-team. Hopefully, he will get farther in the race this year than last. He does have another year of training under his collar.
11:47 am on March 3rd, 2014
I managed to get to the Forums on the Iditarod’s website. To say that people are pissed is an understatement.
I found out why the website crashed yesterday. The Sportsman tv channel gave away free links to the re-start.
I figure the buck still stops with the Iditarod Insider.
11:53 am on March 3rd, 2014
HOH, I don’t think that was Nattie in the platforms with fur around the top. We have inside information (not Insider), that it was Johnny Wier. He has been quoted as saying he doesn’t give a hoot about the animal if the fur adds to his outfit. That is why Barb has a strong dislike for the guy.
Sorry all those up north are feeling less than tip top.
11:53 am on March 3rd, 2014
Siber: Whether it was their fault or not, the Insider is going to lose a lot of customers after this years fiasco.
11:57 am on March 3rd, 2014
The Iditarod has a big egg of its face with its website problems. When people pay for a service, they expect to get it. Very very bad. They should know better and it will cost them big time.
12:00 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Oh dear – ve vere spotted by sharp eye Plunderers. Yes, is true Natasha had back up boots in suitcase. But fur top is fake. Ve vould never vear real fur for fashion statement.
Team is running like vork of clock. Vill be good race – ve are sure.
As to Insider – pah!
12:01 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Is trouble vith being in vilderness. Avatars sometimes cannot keep up
12:04 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Siber: Checking on F/b we see the Sportsman Channel posted a link on their page, but they are saying the 48 hour pass was offered by the Insider.
If this is true it appears the stupid Insider caused their own crash.
12:05 pm on March 3rd, 2014
O’Howler’s Pop has been growing an Alaskan beard since he arrived. He might need a new blogger name. Heh.
12:07 pm on March 3rd, 2014
The Sportsman Channel
Like This Page · March 1
Iditarod Insider is offering a FREE 48 Insider pass to our fans, sign up now for full access to video and GPS tracking and to watch the first two days of the race (March 1st & 2nd)!
12:10 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Looks like the Insider thought this was a good way to drum up new customers.
12:13 pm on March 3rd, 2014
C.Hobbit: Another Grizz!
12:16 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Masquers, The plot thickens. It does not surprise me at all that the Insider caused the problems. I know their past history and other people in the Forums are saying the same thing. On the Iditarod’s website, they will never mention these problems. They never do.
12:17 pm on March 3rd, 2014
BSD: Better than Duck Dynasty beard 🙂
12:22 pm on March 3rd, 2014
My Insiderhas been working fine, including the GPS tracker. Maybe I need to stay Way Up North in Alaska.
12:24 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Siber: That sounds about right and you know the Insider tactics better than we do.
Riö: When you have a moment please check your SDD.
Herds Mom: Or…ZZ Top!
12:27 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Free-Loaders!…Maybe after all the Free loaders leave the website will work again…grump!…Still makes me sick to my pug stomach…spit!
12:32 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio: don’t tell me you’re about to get sick at the Hobbit Hotel! I can’t have any more of my residents sick. My reputation is sinking…Gah
12:39 pm on March 3rd, 2014
On my behalf, I was not sick when I left home. If I am the germ-passer, I am sorry.
On the video posted last night, I am the one in the white SK.
12:54 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Anchorage TV station KTVA’s website has 13 fotos of the ceremonial start and OFM is #12 🙂
1:22 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Heh. Youse sickos should have had some of that Famous Cure All…
Hot Water with Brandy, Lemon & Honey.
Thanks for the Tip, Herd’s Mom!
1:28 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Bear? Is that a Hot Toddy?
1:43 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I’ve got to tell you that Teddy is really enjoying his fist Iditarod, although it seems that we may be having more snow here in Chevy Chase that they are in Alaska, another 5 inches or so falling today. The good thing though was that Teddy and Zeta had an improptu playdate today, sort of early training to see if they can join the team next year in Alaska. We even have a couple of short videos, which I have never tried to upload before but lets see what happens.
http://chetthedog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/IMG_4704.mov
1:44 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Bear, we will have to come up with a different name for the Howler’s pop. Only one Grizz on this here blog.
1:45 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Well, that seemed to work, so let add the second video. They definitely want to join the A team next year if they can!
http://chetthedog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/IMG_4706.mov
1:47 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Wookie and Teddy’s Dad, I think you have two fine candidates for AJ’s team next year. Teddy is so handsome. sigh
1:48 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I want to let you all know that we welcomed my daughter, Tomboy on the other side of the Bridge on Saturday night. My Lady told her she loved her and that it was her time, and then she asked the Creator to keep Tomboy’s spirit and requested Tomboy always know she is loved. Tomboy passed peacefully and is now restored to Whole. She was always one of the best huggers in the kennel—something she’s proved to the Raven, CHobbit’s dad Jerry, Maggie and others. I know she will be missed by my Lady, but I have Tomboy in my care. All will be fine.
1:58 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Fargo, very sorry to hear this news, but I know you will take good care of Tomboy, and that she will be eternally loved. Tomboy will always be near to Your Lady, as their hearts will beat as one.
2:08 pm on March 3rd, 2014
R.I.P. Tomboy.
Nice videos of Teddy and his gal Zeta.
Happybirthday, HOH Maw.
2:24 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Wonder how many race fans have “un-friended” the Insider.
Safe travels to those of you headed home. We are looking forward to the upcoming Plunder Party in Massachusetts.
Hmmm. Wonder where the Pug will be.
2:26 pm on March 3rd, 2014
We just read Fargo’s post.
sniffling here. Wishing that happy girl a good journey.
2:28 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Happy Birthday Sharon.
Howler’s Mom, We don’t think it is your fault that some of the Plunderers up there are getting sick. It is always easier to pick up germs when you are traveling, in a different climate, eating and sleeping differently, etc. Just try to get better before you fly back.
Teddy’s Dad, we couldn’t see any of the fist video, and the second was only about 4 seconds long. Was that the whole thing or did we miss some?
RIP Tomboy. Run like the wind.
2:32 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Location!…I’m staying with CHobbit for as long as I can or until she kicks me out….snort!
2:35 pm on March 3rd, 2014
B&M — sorry about the first (it is only about 2 seconds); the second one is just about 4 seconds; they were taken by Zeta’s mom on a smart phone, which limits the duration. I do have one additional picture below of the two of them — get a load of the ears on our boy!
2:38 pm on March 3rd, 2014
SiberH: Yes, Heh, Heh and Used for Medicinal Purposes Only.
Wose: Of Course there is Only One Grizz! The O’Howlers’ Pop is a Grizz-Wanta-Be.
Okay, Now I’m off to watch the videos that Wookie’s & Teddy’s Dad posted.
2:42 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Great videos, W&T Dad! So glad videos work here. I’ll have to learn how to upload them myself! – Admin
2:51 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Wookie is a beautiful young man. Only question is why is Zeta always in the lead? Is she more Alpha?
2:59 pm on March 3rd, 2014
B&M — Truth be told, she probably is. She is definitely the more agile of the two and slightly faster as well, which leaves Teddy very much in the pursuer role. But they do have great fun together and the best part is always to see them when they first meet — the excitement on both parts is palpable.
3:03 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I don’t remember who asked for a picture of Louisa Mae, and I’m not sure if she is in any of my photos from up here. But here is a photo posted last year when we sponsored her.
3:07 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Admin!….Snort!
3:08 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Fargo: Tomboy Running whole and free With Family and Friends is a joyful thing to see. She lived the Dream of being a Snowhook Dog. And, if we remember correctly, isn’t she the also one of Lucky Dogs featured in Born to Run?
Teddy RR & Zeta Running towards Iditarod…barking Wait for Us!
Admin: Rio can help you out with that!
3:12 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Heh. Rio is loving my mini iPad
3:20 pm on March 3rd, 2014
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkZGg0qNdCc
Laurel and Hardy dance to Santana…
3:49 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I’m do not want to be a Grizz-Wanta-Be. I’m just taking advantage of not shaving for a week.
3:54 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Where is Siber? I want to know if AJ has now passed The Steps.
3:57 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Wookie’s Dad, Nothing wrong with that, they are both getting exercise and having fun. When Maggie plays with Fred next door she is always chasing him, never the other way around. I aways figured that Fred was 1. faster, and 2. Maggie would rather be herding him than having him chase her.
4:00 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Siber girls always think they must be in the lead. Teddy is being a gentleman letting Zeta have her way.
4:09 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Snort – white guys can’t dance!
4:23 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I agree with the Howlers Mom…or another way of saying it is there is nothing else like a Siber girl. I love them and Teddy apparently does too. That is an adorable photo. Teddy with the flying ears is one handsome dude.
Howlers Mom, Sorry, but I have no idea if AJ has passed the steps. I hate the GPS Tracker’s map so much that I have not even looked at it today.
Tomboy, Run like the wind and give all our love to the Plunderers that have arrived at Rainbow Bridge before us..
4:29 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Plunderers are packing. Sniff. Seeing what will fit in their suitcases and what won’t. Rio seems to be supervising or he might be contemplating stowing away–he is acting suspicious but it is hard to tell what is going through his brain.
I haven’t forgotten the Melanie buttons and will let you know when I make them and mail them. Melanie: your button should arrive Wednesday.
4:37 pm on March 3rd, 2014
According to “Current Standings” on the Insider, AJ left Finger Lake at 9:57 this morning (Alaska time) after resting at the checkpoint for four hours.
4:42 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Felix Cumpleanos, Sharon!
4:45 pm on March 3rd, 2014
SnowBella, thank you for sharing about Tomboy. I am honored to have met her before she crossed the bridge.
Watch Rio…your socks might stay in AK and Rio could fly south.
BSD and Siber H: Mmm? A Hot toddy? Then a nap! Might not feel tip top but at least tip. Oh, and some chicken noodle soup too.
Yesterday I did the TN waltz with Junior and Clyde…love those guys.
4:46 pm on March 3rd, 2014
And thanks to all for the early b-day greetings 🙂
5:23 pm on March 3rd, 2014
The team passed the Steps an hour ago! Wooo Hoooo! And a big sigh of relief!!!
5:29 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Siber: Phillip Walters commented on Snowhook’s F/b page that AJ & team have made it through the Steps.
Kat knows what we would be doing without these updates.
5:31 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Heh. Someone beat me to it.
5:34 pm on March 3rd, 2014
CHobbit!…Check your SDD when you get a second…sniff!
5:35 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Thanks guys! I am glad the steps behind AJ now.
5:41 pm on March 3rd, 2014
And we are now just into Rainy Pass. Woo! Woo!
5:43 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Who stole my avatar?
5:49 pm on March 3rd, 2014
We are able to access the tracker and according to that AJ is doing very well
Some teams are down to 14 dogs already. The trail must be pretty tough.
But then again, so is the Snowhook team.
5:57 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Back after some family errands.
Also stopped at the library this morning and ordered 12 years a Slave. We are #40 on the waiting list. That is what we get for ordering it the day after the movie won Best Picture.
What time are the flights back?
6:20 pm on March 3rd, 2014
At the start line yesterday, AJ said to Rececca that the Snowhook dogs were ready to RUN, and it looks that way.
7:13 pm on March 3rd, 2014
The Plundermobile is on the way to meet Rebecca in Wasilla with emergency cheesecake supplies.
7:25 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Awwww – the first scratch – Cindy Gallea is out at Skwentna
Good run Cindy – hope you and your dogs are safe.
7:52 pm on March 3rd, 2014
T&G: That’s too bad. Didn’t Cindy scratch last year also?
CHobbit: Yay for cheesecake!
7:58 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Hey everyone – we saw Melanie today, and she wants to thank you all for all the wonderful cards, and pictures, and books and gifts, and LOVE! She is fighting hard to stay strong, and knowing that she has all this support from all of you truly helps her.
And we want to thank you too.
8:04 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Just received a huge apology from the Insider claiming they had been under attack on Sunday and experienced a deliberate attempt to block access to their site.
Any of youse subscribing to the Insider no doubt has received the same message.
They are assuring us that everything is now up and running. If this is true why are we not receiving the 5 favorite musher updates? (of course there was that one this morning letting us know our team had reached Unalakleet.)
8:11 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I just found that email.
I do not believe them…”under attack”
8:13 pm on March 3rd, 2014
T&G: No matter what is going on in our lives and in the Iditarod, our love is shining on Melanie. We are fighting too to stay strong.
8:13 pm on March 3rd, 2014
From the Iditarod newsletter:
“Iditarod.com comes under attack from NEFARIOUS groups from time to time. On Sunday, March 2, at exactly 12:35pm AKST we experienced a deliberate attempt to block access to Iditarod.com”
Hmmmm – you don’t suppose Natasha had anything to do with this, do you?
Na – couldn’t be
8:18 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Tupper&Gilly: Sniff. Please tell your Mama we think she is One in a Million.
8:23 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Good-byes! Oh, how I hate them! Sniff. The first of the Plunderers depart tonight.
8:23 pm on March 3rd, 2014
I was hoping it was Natasha who had blurred AJ to Unalakleet this morning. Then it turned out to be an Insider error. Phooey.
8:34 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Herd’s Mom: Please check your SDD.
CHobbit: So wonderful to say hello…so difficult to say goodbye.
8:39 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Insider!…They need better Security…sniff!….The only group I can think of that would attack them is PETA…grumble!…Those fanatics would stoop this low by golly…wheeze!
Tracker!…My GPS tracker does not work – are they still under attack???…grumble!….The only thing that works is the clock. AJ never moves even though he is moving at 8 miles an hour…grump!
8:46 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Our GPS works but the videos won’t load (only the annoying ad about subscribing…duh!)
Masquers, just got up after the toddy nap and checked SDD.
8:58 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Video!..I finally got to see our Plunderer-Insider video of The Giants start!…snort!….Way better coverage than that stupid Insider crew…grunt!….Good job Howlers!
9:00 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Creator – another sun has set in the sky, and we are grateful for all the gifts we have received on this day. The night is falling around us, and we are grateful for the comforts we have. The winter is coming to a close, and we are grateful for this time of the resting earth. The spring is coming and soon we will see change.
Tonight, this family comes together to lift our voices to you in prayer. We ask you to hear our song, and lift all hearts among us.
Creator – we thank you for the safe passage of AJ and the team over the Steps. Their sled was lifted by their skill and training – their sled was lifted by your guiding hands.
We thank you for the peaceful crossing of the beloved TomBoy. Her soul was lifted by the love of her Lady, and her spirit will be lifted over the Bridge to join those who wait.
We thank you for the laughter and friendship that bonded our family members together in Alaska. They each in turn lifted each other’s joy, the news and pictures of their gathering lifted all our hearts. We ask you to carry them safely to their homes, and let their memories bring smiles to the rest of their lives.
Creator – we ask you to lift Melanie’s worries, and hold her far away from pain. We ask you to let her feel all of our hands lifting her, caring for her, and supporting her in her battle. We thank you for the gifts we have of her friendship, her wisdom and her humor for we have all been lifted by her each in our own way.
Tonight AJ and the team will continue their run, their prayer for our friend. Let the path to Rohn and Nikolai be swift and easy, let the sled and the harnesses be lifted over the snow, as a feather lifted on a breeze. Let their dance over the frozen ground be easy and graceful, and let their voices be lifted in joy at the beauty around them.
Creator – another sun has set in the sky, and we are grateful for all the gifts we have received on this day. The night is falling around us, and we are grateful for the comforts we have. The winter is coming to a close, and we are grateful for this time of the resting earth. The spring is coming; the earth will lift her face to the sun and proclaim that all is as it should be in your world.
9:03 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen and amen.
9:04 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen and Thank You
9:07 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen.
9:08 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen. Thank you. Blessings.
9:13 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen!…I am grateful for all Golinka said and I am also very grateful for the generous hospitality of CHobbit Harris this past week….sniff!…She has truly been wonderful. She took almost all of the photos of me on my Alaskan Adventure. So I am very grateful to her for that…sniffle!…I know we both hope Melanie enjoyed seeing me suffer outside all the damned time…grunt!
9:17 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio: you poor abused pug 🙁 I happen to know first paw that the Plunderer Shuttle was toasty (if a bit tight with a curly tailed one in it).
9:32 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio – the pictures that Melanie loved the best were the ones of you out in the snowbank. Or shut out on the deck. But out in the snow was the best.
You are a Good Pug to do all that for our amusement.
9:32 pm on March 3rd, 2014
HoHo!…You have absolutely no photos to prove that….grunt!…I was cold and outside all the damned time…sniff!
9:33 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Alaska Daily News (ADN.com) has on page A-8 a foto of Jem sticking his head out of the Snowhook truck (upper left).
9:34 pm on March 3rd, 2014
OUT!….All this talk reminds me I have to go OUT!OUT!OUT!…gasp!…I’ve been in all day long watching these guys pack. Some of them packed up some of my toys, I swear!…wheeze!
9:36 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio, you are right. I didn’t take the I Paw and don’t know how to download the digital camera. But..who will people believe, an evil pug or a retired teacher?
9:36 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio, there could be more pictures of you meeting me me me and that stupid Loulou. Just stowaway in Dawson’s luggage.
9:38 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Photos!…People believe photos…sniff!…You don’t have any, so there!…grunt!…Now let me IN!IN!IN!..wheeze!
9:38 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio, and you could visit Niagara Falls!
9:38 pm on March 3rd, 2014
9:40 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Lil’ Sammie!….That is very tempting, but it is damned cold there too…sniff!…I need to go home for awhile and see my friend. And maybe even say Hi to Beau…grunt!
9:45 pm on March 3rd, 2014
O’H Mom–I asked for Louisa May and I thank you posting the photo. Pretty girl with a very serious and noble look…
9:45 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Surprise!…Dawson is away right now to parts unknown so I took the opportunity to leave a little surprise in her suitcase…heh!heh!
9:48 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Oh RIo, think about Niagara falls and MA! What a well traveled puglet you would be, and we could share more dinner adventures!
9:48 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen.
Thank you, Melanie, for being our friend. You are loved!
9:48 pm on March 3rd, 2014
…and I add my own “Amen” and those of Pretty, Edgar and Conan.
9:53 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Think I saw Natasha’s purple heel at the 5th Street mall but the foto remains elusive. Will try again later.
9:56 pm on March 3rd, 2014
HoHo!…You are going to Niagra Falls?…wheeze!….Is Daddy Digger Dawg going also?…sniff!
10:01 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Rio, No Niagara Falls for me since no choo choo in Chattanooga. but am flying to Conn then have an Amalia shuttle to MA in March (3/13-3/16). DDD must stay home to care for the HOH but I can lose at cards as well as the next guy.
10:01 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen!
I have many pictures on my digital camera but I cannot upload them to my Ipad. They can be uploaded onto the O’Howlers ipad but mine doesn’t have the proper thingeemagig.
We brought cheesecake to SnowBella, had lunch and heard many fascinating dog stories. Now we are contemplating one last supper before we begin dispersing to our various destinations.
10:02 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Snicker!
10:04 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Stopped an eagle after lunch in Wasilla with Rebecca, Dawson, Macy and Eileen
10:04 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen. Thank you Golinka and Storyteller.
10:06 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Actually he was already stopped and then we spotted him.
10:06 pm on March 3rd, 2014
The eagle was having a conversation with a raven. They were on the same branch but I didn’t click the camera in time.
10:08 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen.
10:16 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Love to Melanie, and thank you again Amalia for the evening prayer.
We were wondering how you stopped the eagle. And now good night all.
10:34 pm on March 3rd, 2014
We are off to bed too – Special thanks to the Plunderfest in Alaska. You have all given us a real inside look at the race, and made us laugh in the process.
It was a grand adventure, and we got to live it and still keep our feet warm and dry.
G’night all
10:36 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Shudder!…I just learned The Giant and the A-Team are heading into a treacherous part of the trail…yeeeeep!…Rebecca just sent me a text message on my little Go-Phone…snuffle!
Worrit!…He five miles out of Rainy Pass and heading towards Dalzell Gorge. It is Couch-Cushion Chewing time gang…wheeze! Yeeep!
10:45 pm on March 3rd, 2014
10:49 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Amen. Amalia, Thank You for another Perfect Prayer that expresses the Love we feel in our Hearts for Melanie, who is Our Treasure.
Good Runnings for Team Snowhook and Safe Travels for those returning home tonight.
10:51 pm on March 3rd, 2014
10:57 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Dima is running with our team now, and Buddy will be out to meet them. No worries.
10:58 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Dawson: An eagle and a raven…we would loved to have eavesdropped on that conversation.
Great shot Oley Howlers’ Pop!
Yeep! Pass me one of those couch cushions and quick!
11:00 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Are you going to eat all of that cushion? I don’t think I’ll exhale until the team is safely in Rohn.
11:15 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Bear (a.k.a. Mr. Howlers’ Pop): I have a birthday present for you. Me! I have decided that I will sit between you and Howlers’ Maw on the plane ride home. Truth be told, I have no idea how my tail works, but it can come with me.
11:46 pm on March 3rd, 2014
Staff: Stan & Ollie & Carlos…love them all but never thought of them jivin together. Heh.
Dawson will be there soon…as soon as tomorrow afternoon.
The sisters three…together again…let the good times roll!
1:35 am on March 4th, 2014
Beautiful prayer, Golinka. Thank you. Blessings and peace to all.
2:14 am on March 4th, 2014
We just returned from our last Plunderer Dinner at Plunderfest 2014 (Alaska Division). Sob
2:14 am on March 4th, 2014
Patsy Ann our plane leaves at 6:10 am. I’ll wait for you at the gate. Please bring your tail. ❤️
2:20 am on March 4th, 2014
The Catty Librarian is home and safe in the little room we alot her hat the top of the stairs. She says she is going to bed now.
Say goodnight Gracie…
2:21 am on March 4th, 2014
allot..cough cough ?
2:44 am on March 4th, 2014
All alone…everyone is in their warm, soft beds…except our Bella, her eyes fixed on the tracking device. I am waiting up with her for news of the team’s arrival in Rohn.
Dawson leaves on the Red Eye for MSP in less than 3 hours.
The Howlers’ mom & pop at 6 am.
WoooHooo! Our team has checked into Rohn!!!
3:01 am on March 4th, 2014
Masquers: My Lady and I are here. You are correct—we have been watching the GPS tracker. She exhaled and I wagged my tail when the team arrived in Rohn. What a relief. But, the bumps and bruises of the trail aren’t over. He still has the run to Nikolai. It is in the upcoming section of trail that has damaged his sled the past two years. Yeep!
3:05 am on March 4th, 2014
Dawson: Are you are the airport yet? I will be tracking you.
O’Howlers’ Mom & Pop: Youse too. 7 hrs. to go.
Smooth flights everyone.
3:06 am on March 4th, 2014
Whitey-Lance: Is that the Farewell Burn?
Did you see the photo of Rohn? Yeep!
3:07 am on March 4th, 2014
Ah, Plundererfest 14 (Alaska Division) is winding down, sob. So many great memories. Such an amazing hostess. Take a bow CHobbit. Putting real faces with virtual friends. And so many pictures that didn’t make the blog. Such as:
Rio on a road trip
3:58 am on March 4th, 2014
Just back from dropping Dawson at the airport and taking Sharon and Digger back to their hotel. We had a Last Supper and then, of course, Dawson & Digger had to play more cut-throat games of cards before leaving. The O’Howlers get to get up at the crack of dark and head to the airport in the Plundermobile. Then I drive ML back to Chugiak tomorrow. It seems like the days have flown by.
4:07 am on March 4th, 2014
We are boarding the airplane now. I won’t see the magnificent mountains in the dark. Good bye Alaska! You’ve been good to me. Thank you CHobbit! It’s been great meeting the Plunderer’s.
4:09 am on March 4th, 2014
Not that Rio has overstayed his welcome, no he has not, but who is on blurring duty these days? Rio’s Friend says she and Beau misses him.
I am imagining SnowBella glued to the computer and 40+ other dogs psychically tuned into AJ and the 16 dogs away from home. I wonder who will want to peel themselves away to make sure Rio gets home. Tomorrow will be a special day for the doggies–there are leftovers from the Last Supper for Rio & Sadie to split and the last pee-mail to be checked and answered.
4:11 am on March 4th, 2014
Back at you Awesome Dawson! Safe travels
4:20 am on March 4th, 2014
Hey, Riö!
Bye Dawson!
Nite everyone.
7:27 am on March 4th, 2014
Off to the Airport. Thank you C. Hobbit. We had a great time. We stayed at the 7 star Hobbit Hotel and it not disappoint.
7:28 am on March 4th, 2014
Off to the Airport. Thank you C. Hobbit. We had a great time. We stayed at the 7 star Hobbit Hotel and it did not disappoint. Too early!
9:38 am on March 4th, 2014
Good morning (yawn)
The Howlers’ Mom & Pop leaving soon for the Twin Cities.
Dawson has already boarded her plane for the same destination.
Our fabulous Snowhook team just checked out of Rohn a few minutes ago.
(hey, Bear, where’s my cafe au lait?)
GO SNOWHOOK!!!
3:44 am on March 24th, 2014
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