My Favorite Superbowl Ads, Sled Dog Racing, and News

Hello all,

I started this post Sunday, but never got it finished so the subjects may seem a bit outdated.

While everyone was settling in to watch the big game I was, and still am, excited about news of the 30th running of the Yukon Quest. I can’t quite explain my fascination of the sled dog races as I’ve never owned a sled dog nor even watched a race in person! I did, however, get to ride on a sled pulled by some amazing dogs that live for the game, for a brief 10 minutes. It was a blast!

I have to say I wish there was more television coverage of sled dog racing events. But I suppose one of the things loved most by mushers is being in the wilderness all alone with their dogs. The Yukon Quest is more of a survival-type race compared to the Iditarod, with much less media coverage, less check points, more miles in-between check points, and less assistance. Truly times of complete isolation in the vast wilderness of the Yukon.

Wow. I am in awe of the mushers and their dog teams. I have to make it to the Quest or Iditarod someday. In the meantime, you can bet I will try with all my mite to make it to the UP200 next weekend!

Next, while I didn’t really watch the Superbowl because I was working, expecting company,  and a bit obsessed with any news on the mushers, I am always interested in the Superbowl commercials. With a background in such things (marketing/advertising), I can’t help myself!

Two made my list of favorites. I think you will know why:

I can relate to this in a huge way… Yep, I got teary-eyed. I know how that guy feels.

And this one:

Simply brilliant, in my opinion.

In other news, lets see… Where to start…

All the pups are doing great. They are really ready for adventures outdoors and are growing very bored with life in a kitchen. It’s been brutally cold, so while we’ve attempted some time outside, it’s only a few minutes before the wee darlings, now 6.5 weeks, are shivering and ready to go back inside. The older boys, on the other hand, could care less about the cold and love playing in the snow. I will really try to get photos soon. We are hoping Wiley and Hughie will get to fly to their new homes this weekend, but of course the weather across the nation could change that again!

I got to enjoy a brief visit with the older boys—Huron, Seger, Aero, and Rush—this week. They look fantastic and seem very, very happy, which makes me more than peaceful. I wish I would have gotten photos of them while they were here, but thought I would have more time. Before I knew it, they were leaving and on the road to Florida and I lost my chance. They have really matured into very nice dogs and I feel they couldn’t be in better hands.

The topic of trainers/training philosophies is one I will write about soon and how a gentle and patient hand with our Llewellins makes all the difference. The importance of bonding. The importance of patience, gentleness, understanding your dog and communicating in a way he understands…

Exciting news for those waiting for Santana to come in heat–she is!

And Dora is doing great. 🙂

And that’s all for now.

Hug your Llewellin… and a sled dog… and a farmer… and a Clydesdale… and heck, even your Dodge Ram! 😉

—LML