It was the boys' turn to go camping, and all set out to the school's cabin, about a 10 minute snow mobile ride from the village. Once there we set up, a few brought tents but most planned to sleep in the cabin which was, in a word, rustic. It was not much more than plywood floors, walls and ceiling. Two small windows, two ventilation holes and a door. Good thing we brought warm clothes.
Stoves were lit to boil water for tea, hot chocolate and soup. The bannock was broken out, and we spent the time adjusting to the surroundings and waiting for the dog sled teams. They arrived soon enough, and two groups of about 4 people each set out with the teams. After an hour or so they returned and the remaining people had their turn. Dog sledding is a very peaceful way to get around. Instead of the roar of engines you hear the gentle swoosh of the runners and the occasional "Hup! Hup!" from the musher. He never once said "Mush!" The dogs quickly settle into a steady pace, and you can hop off the sled and jog beside for a few steps if you feel up to it. It's like being in a canoe, except colder, no paddles and the occasional smell of a dog passing wind.
After sledding a group went out to Bubble Lake again, and Eric got wet. Should have listened to those elders! It was only his feet, but he felt the cold for sure. Dinner was shepherd's pie and hot dogs, then a few of us climbed up the hill side to catch the view. Once again, we were surrounded by incredible landscape and a slowly thawing tundra. I even made my first inukshuk!
Today we have more time for crafts, then a traditional feast for our last evening meal. It's hard to believe we're almost done here. The forecast calls for light snow tomorrow, so whether or not we actually leave as scheduled is yet to be determined.
Michael
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