41. Chemo Dogsledding

Have you ever picked up a brochure glorifying some sunny destination, only to find out that when you get there, it also rains?...(un)foreseen circumstances...

Years back I had a teaching position at Prince Albert, SK, a city on the edge of the boreal forest, with an abundance of picturesque lakes in the surrounding area.  One weekend, about this time of year, my husband drove up and we decided to roam the countryside.  Stopping for coffee at a roadside cafe, we noticed a brochure for dogsledding and called the number.  We were in luck!  Yes, they could accommodate us for a short trip.  Upon arrival we found a pandemonium of extremely excited dogs all over the yard.  8 of them were quickly hitched up to our sled, in 2 by 2 fashion.  Then my husband and I sat down in the sled,  me in front leaning against his chest and knees.  The guide was standing on the runners in the back.  And off we were!!!   On the trail the dogs immediately went quiet and peacefully pulled the sled.  It was as if we were gliding on a cloud, a most heavenly feeling hard to put to words!  On the return trip, the first pair of dogs set a much higher pace because they knew that they were going to get a tasty treat at home.  But all of a sudden the dog closest to me started to lift one hind leg and I realized to my horror that he was about to do his "business".  With no screen and no body in front of me I squeezed my eyes and mouth tightly shut as the little brown ping-pong balls came shooting out in all directions.  Since none of the other dogs nor the guide for that matter took a moment's notice, this poor dog was dragged along on his 3 other legs.  No easy feat!

So here is my advice to you:  Yes, by all means try mushing.  I do not think that you will regret this experience.  However, don't throw out your covid masks and facial screens just yet! You may come across:  (un)foreseen circumstances!

Tomorrow another post on spring.  Till then!