Sunning ourselves in the Mackenzie Delta

After a cold night, a visit from the fox (the dogs were barking furiously at some stage during the night) and from 2 snowmobiles that leave tracks fairly close to our tents, we surface at 11ish to clear skies, a slight breeze and a balmy minus 15°C.

Breakfast is huge: Canadian bacon, fried apricot and pecan bread and maple syrup. Early in the afternoon we disperse to read, sleep, or snowshoe. I climb into a dogsled, and out of the wind and in the warm sunshine, read and snooze. The dogs are snuggled up in the sun with their black jackets on and are enjoying the rest day – all is right with the world! And they are so content that we enjoy a couple of choruses of dog howls, led by the one and only Willow.

We are now only a day or two from Aklavik and I have a chance to reflect on the people I’m with. Rod, Martha and Steve are all exceptional people. To organise a trip like this with the high quality of equipment, food and care for the guests and dogs, is a massive exercise. Although we are out in a wilderness area, it feels safe and comfortable. I am surrounded by people who are extraordinarily competent in this part of the world. Word has it that Rod and Martha will marry later this year. A fabulous match, and future trips with them in winter or summer, will always be special.

Steve is the person who just gets in and gets the work done. He never seems to tire, or get cranky. Well, other than with the dogs when they misbehave. Based on the amount of energy he uses during the day, I’m sure he sleeps well at night. He is a marvel.

David is Canadian, now living in Istanbul with his fiancée. He has a fascinating background, having worked most of his life in the US. At 49, he is semi-retired following the very successful sale of his software company. An understated person, he has taken this trip as a prelude to completing his goal of going to both Poles. Next year, he and Rod will accompany an expedition to the North Pole, and then 18 months later, he would like to go to the South Pole. I look forward to hearing and reading all about it.

Bob is about 64 and retired from his work in funds management. He lives in Calgary and spends his summers canoeing and rafting rivers in Canada, and the winters dogsledding in various parts of Canada. A delightful man who gave me great tips throughout the trip.