Catch up

Ok, sorry about the big delay in posts. Apparently the internet I thought I had was just a wayward signal I was able to pick up.

Saturday market was a blast; I thought that it was a very nice sized event, although the freezing temperatures and wind chills kept many vendors and buyers away. I spent a lot of time at the fur tables though. Not only was touching encouraged but the vendors had many stories and much information on each of the individual animals. There were many native crafts (though pricey) and many people there to catch up and visit. Additionally there were many vendors that created their own crafts that were not the typical traditional fare. It was really nice to see the generations working together at family tables. Many children were encouraged to make items and sell them. While these weren't perfect (and hence less pricey), I found the flaws and the excitement when one of their items was sold made the experience that much more meaningful. The women and girls make grass baskets here that are exquisite. I can't imagine the man hours put into making one and the price reflects the tediousness of the project.

Not as many people ventured out into the cold for the finish of the big sled race. The shortest race time was 18 hours and 26 minutes arriving back in Bethel on Saturday night but the last finisher didn't arrive until Monday night just prior to the awards banquette. All the mushers conceded that it was indeed a very tough trail this year. A smaller race, the Akiak dash, was postponed until today. Mushers awoke to a fresh snowfall that will inevitably improve the race conditions.

Sunday was a day spent watching football, making chili and puppy chow, and an encore performance on rock band. It felt nice to get back in the kitchen and cooking again.

Monday, a holiday, was spent lounging and relaxing prior to the banquette. It was nice to be able to stay out of the elements for a while. Tonight will be laundry and more cooking!