Memories of the Iditarod and Dog Mushing in Alaska

I’m not able to make it to Fur Rendezvous or the start of the Iditarod this year in Alaska (happening this week, wish I could teleport.) Reflecting back on memories attending past races and experiencing dog mushing for myself. I remember the first time I ever heard of the Iditarod. Freshman year high school biology in Huntington Beach, CA and our teacher shared it from her Alaskan years. Explaining her petrified moose poop earrings and why she was wearing them the first week of March. Proud of where she hailed from (loved her). She described the 1000 mile dog sled race from Anchorage to Nome and the history of it, “The Last Great Race on Earth®”. Told us about legends like DeeDee Jonrowe who performed the race annually after surviving breast cancer, donning a hot-pink tutu and dog booties on her sled team (such a sight of joy to behold). Lance Mackey, who’d won 4 times and was a local hero. She held my imagination and inspiration captive that day. If only I could remember biology as well ;). I never thought I’d see it for myself, let alone that I’d have lived in Alaska and gotten to experience these things firsthand. Its funny how life gives you little stand out hints. Memories that surface to the top, only so you can later connect the dots and threads on the tapestry, woven of your life’s moments. I cant make it to see it in person again this year and I read the ceremonies have changed because of covid. If you ever get the chance, brave traveling to Alaska in the winter during the last week of Feb and First week of March for some winter magic you won’t soon forget. These pics are from my last dog mushing experience atop Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. Provided by Temsco Helicopters. Winter boasts the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights (think they were out last night), some epic hot spring experiences around the state, ice museums and sculptures, and chances to see glaciers in all their electric blue glory. Its more than worth being a little chilly for.