Inaugural Blog

From Peter -

               
                Welcome everyone! (If there is anyone at this point). Today, our website, Run4theredlantern.com, got off the ground. Its aim is to keep you, the masses, informed of our progress as we work towards our goal of competing in the 2014 Iditarod with a pure bred Malamute team, and naturally, the best way to keep y’all current on our progress is through this brand new blog.

                Since I have been asked to write this blog, and since a blog is another name for a public diary, I should probably start by introducing myself. My name is Peter, and I’ve been working here at the ranch since November, at which point I knew nothing of the skills needed to work in such a setting (I now know a little more than nothing). I came here because I wanted an opportunity to learn those skills, to work with the dogs, to live off the grid, and yes, to be with my girlfriend, Morgan. I’m 24 years old, less than two years out of college, and learning more here every day than I ever did in 17 years of student life.

                Now, to get you up to speed, the bad news first: For three days, it has been steadily plopping wet, heavy snow on us, and apparently that’s the go ahead for me to find every possible way to create more work for everyone around me. In 24 hours I have managed to get the plow truck stuck…three times, break the plow on another vehicle, and while tromping around on our roof during 50 mph snow gusts (long story), stomp a hole through part of the ceiling.

                Now, the good news: Evidently, everyone else here has both more patience and a better sense of humor than I. This week marked the end of race season, and has therefore been unusually restful. The season was all of our firsts, and I’m comfortable calling it a success – Morgan completed all four races she competed in, running approximately 100 miles in each of the last three. Both mushers and malamutes piled up miles and experience, setting us up for bigger and better things next season. Most immediately in the good news category: it seems to be clearing up a bit, which is great timing seeing as some good friends are coming to visit this weekend, and we’re antsy to get back to running dogs while they’re here.

                Well I think that’s enough for an introductory blog. The first of those aforementioned friends should be rolling in any minute now, so I should be off. If y’all have any questions I’d be happy to answer them (it’ll give me fodder to fill my blog). Otherwise, I’ll try to write up another update within the next couple days. Until next time!