A Word on Dog Abuse

Unbelievable! You wouldn't believe the crazy stuff that people are posting on the internet about Iditarod dog abuse. It's complete crazy talk! I grew up in Alaska and have seen many, many different kennels. I've spent significant amounts of time at many of these kennels and I can personally attest to the happiness of the dogs. The Iditarod mushers, although not created equal, have a general sense of well-being and treat their dogs in the best possible manner.

One site states "dogs are forced to pull heavy weight". REALLY?? For one, no one forces these dogs to do anything. They WANT to run. And if they don't, then they don't have to! Yeesh! What about the tiny sweaters on your stupid terrier?? That's forced if you ask me!

This particular site also said that they are forced to swim... oh yes. Dogs hate to swim. Especially if you toss a stick in the lake. They really hate that. Oh man these people are morons.

So guess what folks? Dogs smile. We all know this. And when it's time to hook up to the sled, they are smiling, barking, and ready to roll! They LOVE it!! Woo hoo doggies!

The Smell of Fresh Snow

So after returning from a month's vacation, I was disappointed at the lack of snow. Anchorage looked pretty much like it looked when I left, which was dismal in comparison to my expectations of fluffy snow and a nice winter. Luckily, it started snowing right away, as if to welcome me home.

Last night I went to the birthday party of one of my lovely employees Nicole, who we affectionately call "COCO". As I was leaving the party, the smell of fresh snow hit my nostrils and I said aloud, "Finally! This is what I have been waiting for all winter." For some reason I hadn't found that smell yet this year, even though we've had snow. There's just something about it, you know what I mean? Crisp, clean, and... snowy? Will someone please help me with a more descriptive word?

Many of our guests are quite afraid of the snow. People think "Cold, wet", but not so! In fact, snow can mean warm! It's true! When it gets super cold and dark, it doesn't snow and winter starts to feel long and dismal and the streets look dirty. Then it warms up a little and life looks all rosy and the classic light, large, quiet flakes float to the ground like they did yesterday and all is right in the world.

My First Blog - and of course it's Alaska!

Hello all,

Well, not so true to form, I have decided to follow a trend and start a blog. Is this even "the cool thing" to do anymore?

The truth is, my little business and my tour descriptions just aren't enough! I have more to say! I want to talk about the REAL feelings I get when I enjoy Alaska - the REAL experience and the details that make it all so. I want to share what it's really all about, more than I can put on my tour website (www.salmonberrytours.com). Although that's a place for people to get started on making MY Alaska into their own Alaska, this will be the place to see how my Alaskan day really went and what it is about this place that makes me so happy, contented, excited to show it off.

I'll start by warning: this blog will have photos, personal opinions, personal information, personal feelings, business plugs for my business and others that I support, and links to whatever I feel fits.

Thanks for reading!

Candice