News from Sawyer Lake

Spring 2008

The crows may not be back but the magpies and ravens are gathering sticks for their nests and the owls are already "sitting". That’s right, spring is right around the corner, ready or not, and it seems most are ready.

We are doing our last sled dog runs after a wonderful season. Young Amisk and Mahkesis took to the tuglines very well. Ole Rusty is passing his leadership skills to son Sage. We patiently are waiting for Bleu to have her pups; they are always such a pleasure to have around and to train.

Big changes for us in relation to horses. We have sold our mainstay, Queenie, and her four-year-old gelding to Michael Fialkowski who selective horse logged with us this winter. We felt she would be better served doing what she does best. We wish Michael and his dad Wenzel the best with these two fine horses. We will miss those two horses tremendously!

We are presently training two Fjord mares. Their smaller size and versatility may serve our purposes better in the overall picture.

As other folks are, we are presently going through the transition from the winter snow melt to the running creeks and the emergence of the new plant and animal life. Yes, the fresh smell of the spring air... let us enjoy its uplifting spirit, put on our hiking boots and go for a good walk.

See along the trails.

Winter 2007-08

Major shake-up in the dog world at SLA. We decided to add an additional breeding line of Sib’s purchased from Marcel and Kathy Thibodeau of Chagoness. Although their dogs did not have any sledding experience, Musqua and Bleu (litter mates) took to the traces quickly. Their stocky build and good nature are a pleasant addition to family.

We also purchased from Marcel and Kathy a long lanky female, Mahkesis, just ten months old and young Amisk just six months old who is more heavy built like her uncle and auntie above. Needless to say, this purchase has required some adjustment by all team members but it has gone well adding excitement all around.

Horselogging has started in earnest with added help this winter from Micheal Fialkowski(spring graduate of Resource Technology of SIAST in Saskatoon) and his dad, Wenzel, (long time resident of the boreal fringe and excellent “man of the bush”.

Add to the mix Scott Paterson (wwoofer from BC -- that being an acrynom for world wide opportunities on organic farms) and we have a full complement of staff this upcoming winter. It is going to be an exciting and interesting group and we invite you to come spend part of your winter holiday time with us.

Remember, snow was made for us to enjoy!

--David and Maureen

Fall 2007

Hey, how did that happen? Someone should have told us... Summer's gone!

The leaves are turning colors of red, orange and yellow. One can feel the nip in the air. A walk through the woods at this time of the year livens one's step.

For those of you who have signed on for The Rut is On or Fall Extravaganza packages, we look forward to sharing the boreal with you. Training has started in earnest for dogsledding and horse logging for the upcoming winter. Keep us in mind as you plan your winter holiday -- long or short.

--David and Maureen

Summer 2007

Yep! Summer is here. The Trembling Aspen tell us this when their leaves sing in the wind. On the ground are Three Flowering Avens. In the forest are Saskatoon blossoms. Chickadees and warblers sing melodies all day. Ah! And the warm sun shines on your face.

The horses seem to be enjoying the tall grass in the pasture. Stasha and Fey, two Norwegian Fjords, have fitted in nicely since their arrival and are getting ready for their summer training.

The Siberians are happy to see two new faces, Musqua and Shania, who are equally satisfied with the company of the others.

Yes, summer seems to bring new additions and adventure here for us at Sawyer Lake. Around each bend on the trails are new surprises. So, if you are ready for some excitement, hang up those skis, pull out your hikers and come take a walk with us.

Spring 2007

Rusty says that’s enough! You started us in the middle of October and want us to keep sledding right into April! Actually truth be know this has been the best winter for the dogs, horses and drivers in many years. Lots of snow and mild temperatures generally. The dogs and horses live to pull the sleds and are excited with the new faces and new country we travel. We are careful who we say this to, but we are hoping for the same type of winter again next year.

However, much to our delight seasons in Saskatchewan do change bringing on a whole new set of activities and adventures.

As usual everyone is waiting to see/hear the first crow or Canada goose arrive for the official statement of spring. The beavers and muskrats will soon poke their heads through the holes in the ice and the area becomes alive with the sounds of renewed life and activity.

Need a break? Why not join us with a canoe trip down the Assiniboine River for a time and length determined by you; perhaps an overnighter. How about a walk through the boreal forest with an evening vigil in one of our tree houses?

Come celebrate spring with us.

--David, Maureen and Michael