Board Your Dogs on the Denali, this summer!!

WANT TO BOARD YOUR DOGS THIS SUMMER?

Luxury boarding on the Denali, with 24 hour staffing available May 16- Sept 20 2006.

Bug Free & above timberline!

Dog walking and exercise daily!Toe nail clipping, and massage available for your dog.

Your dog (s) health, happiness and safety is my number #1 priority.

I'm now taking reservations through June 1st 2006. These spots fill up quickly, so please call, or write if you have dogs you would like to board! I can take individual dogs, or groups of 5 to 15. 35 spaces available.

Email Zoya for more detailed information and new summer rates. zdenure@yahoo.com

New Season in Bloom

Another winter/sled dog racing season has come and gone, a reality that's a little tough for me to accept but within a few weeks, I'll have to when we leave the state for a small trip outside.

The seasons are extreme, intense and tend to change so fast here in Alaska. I notice the changes more so in the summer/fall with the turning of the light, in the sky. Each season has it's own magic and lovely attractions - bittersweet tales. Last night as we drove back from Fairbanks, I spent some time enjoying all the millions of stars and planets in the sky, soaking up the grand beauty of it all knowing that in just a month and a half, it will be daylight most of the time!

As full time sled dog drivers and kennel owners, our winters provide much personal and mental satisfaction- the physical work we do outside each day working with the dogs, long hours on the trails training the teams in back country Alaska, and the progress that takes place from taking a dog who was unwanted with bad habits and with our love, time and training--we watch him/her grow, progress, change with confidence, trust and run with a sense of renewed joy of running----- And then to have that canine athlete participate in these races with either me or John here in Alaska. What a feeling of great accomplishment! Each day is new and exciting, with goals and a personal program designed around each team. What a grand feeling of taking a team of 12 or 14 strong, mentally healthy and happy, and physically conditioned dogs down the trail doing what they know and love most. You've seen the pictures of these dogs in their elements or you've likely experienced this yourself! Tongues flip flopping from side to side, ears dance excitedly in the wind, legs everywhere and the dogs are off!

The sled-time with our dogs in the white winter months is a time when we really get to kow each dog well. This is a time when we learn their strengths, weaknesses and physical abilities and or disabilities. To this day I haven't found another feeling to replace it or words to totally explain it; it's just this high-feeling of well being without mind or mood altering substance, it's spiritual and good, and it's something you can't buy or get from a good book or movie ..it's something you just have to get out and do.

Speaking of books and movies, we did a little of all that this past weekend. We went to the movie 8 Below while in town for business, and then did some shopping for our trip outside. It's usually the bookstore you can't hardly drag me out of but this weekend was shopping for the trip. I Had no idea how good my husband looked in blue & white striped Polo's and a pair of khaki Chaps shorts!!

For us, we have our "summer life and our winter life" and the two differ greatly. We move from our beautiful lake log home in the winter to our smaller more "Alaskan" cabins with no running water on site or electricity for the summer. In the summer, we move our entire kennel operation to our Denali Hwy property and cabins, perched on the Maclaren River across the way from Maclaren River Lodge. We have 60 dog houses always there, a small gift shop, three cabins, one rental and many summer activities happening for all. The buses start rolling in around the 15th May, and we open up for business. I offer summer sled dog boarding and by May 20th, I'm in full swing with Princess Bus Tours, talking to folks from around the world about sled dogs, racing and our efforts to rescue and rehabilitate those misfit dogs. It's a chance for me to welcome new friends and sled dog/Alaskan enthusiasts into our world of sled dog sports and Alaskan life. It's the only real chance for me to reach people in numbers about what we do, how we go about it, what we're good at and what we love the most.

John is with us until mid June and then he is off for a few weeks fishing Salmon and Halibut. I'll sneak away in later July for a week to assist long lining on our small commercial fishing boat. You should see the size of some of these Halibut we catch!

Have a safe trip Lee, Pam and the crew!

Lee and his team of huskies have been here with us training for nearly three weeks now, today we say "goodbye for now" as he, his wife and the dogs head home to California. We'll be boarding his dog "Johnnie" through the summer and soon here in April, we'll be getting one more dog named "Loui". Loui will fly from Cali to AK to spend the next several months in training here at Crazy Dog. Lee has mad special arrangements with me to keep a few dogs boarded and trained through the summer/fall season. Lee's goal is to come back to AK next Jan. and train for a 200 mile race, with a mixed team of his dogs and some of my older, more experienced vet dogs.

This picture is of me and JayJ sitting pretty with Paxson Mountain behind us.

These kind of days are so nice where the days are longer and we're experiencing warmer temps. The dogs are comfortable and content for whatever the day may bring. This time of year we are busy spring cleaning around the house, working on kennel maintenance, fixing dog houses, remodeling the puppy and heat pens. We're running 10-12 dog teams out on fun 6 to 25 mile runs. So much to do and never enough time in a day!!

Have a Great week! Cheers!!

Zoya DeNure

Carribou crossing the Richardson Hwy near Delta Jct. We've seen this herd on and off all year. On our way to Fairbanks for a few deliveries and visits.  

Zoya's working studio. Beads! Beads! And more Beads! 

Spring time is a busy time for me! I'm spending hours a day now filling jewelry orders for new clients in the Anchorage and Fairbanks area gift shops. Handcrafted fine porcupine quill, bead and stone jewelry. This was just a relaxing hobby I would do for fun for me and my family and friends, but now it's turning into quite a business of it's own! You never know what might come of doing the things you love! There's a great saying that has stuck in my head for a very long time. "do what you love and the money will follow" 29 years here and I must say it's always rung true.  

Storey is all about the love! 

Zoya & Storey 

What are you waiting for?  

WINTER 2006/2007 Full time handler

EMAIL ZOYA for an application 2006/07! zdenure@yahoo.com

We're now accepting winter 2006/07 applications for full time dog handler, training assistant and grounds keeper. No experience necessary, but previous experience a plus! We're looking for someone who can manage a yard of 45-50 dogs, run errands and do pick-ups, drivers license a must! You should be able to run dog teams of 8- 10 dogs on her/his own, and or quickly learn with confidence. Tip top attitude, focused, positive people only please! Good physical condition is very important and self motivation essential! This is a professional racing kennel with teams in training for Iditarod and Yukon Quest 2007. This is a great opportunity to learn about dogs and how to run'em right. Serious inquiries only please. No Marks please!

Comfortable private living quarters, board and very good monthly stipend.
Email for more detailed info.

Zoya DeNure

It was tough riding in the basket all the way to Paxson and back today, a total of 16 miles. After my run with the pups, out 8 miles--I felt like we needed to go out and assist with the 2nd team. What a gorgeous day it is; the mountain range is our back drop- edging the horizon with terrific contrast, blues, white and a hint of spruce green. 35F today in Paxson with clear blue bird skies. John and I are making spring plans at this time, and looking forward to one more month of light training and and camping with our dogs. One of my favorite dog yard coats ripped right open on an exposed nail-and my first instinct was to take a piece of duct tape and tape it shut until tonight when John breaks out the sewing kit. I would have never in one million years ago in this lifetime thought about duct tape for my coat--it works and it works really well. The sun is setting and in the sky is a light night time glow; shimmering blues and glassy whites streak the sky, and Paxson Mountain fades slowly behind the curtain as if she is saying "good night". We are so blessed.  

Tales from the trail

FINISH LINE CHATANIKA 200 Wilbur and Pitch in lead.

12 strong, happy and healthy dogs at the end of our 200 mile race. We did it guys, 2nd place! Not bad for a team I pulled out of distance training for one month to train for the Womens' World Championship races last Feb. in Anchorage! These dogs are fast, athletic and just plain great all the way around, working together as a family unit because that is what we are at home in the kennel, and on the trail at these races. My dogs work from their hearts and run from that natural born instinct. I see a lot of potential in the young dogs coming on --with a few dogs in their best years to come. This year's Chatanika team were all rescues, all of them but 4.

Last year I took the same crew minus Sebe amd Landslide. I left Sebe at home only because I thought Galen needed the experience more and Landslide sat home because North really needed to be tested on something a little tougher than these 65 mile runs around Paxson. He's got the power we needed on the hills for that first leg and the heart to keep us all inspired through wind and darkness.

Galen

is just under two years old and this was his first race!! His first race placing 2nd! Galen is shy to people and very funny about being touched at all, twinging at the mere thought. But give him his dog friends and he is content with just that. I've been running Galen in lead at home in training and this dog drives the team with blazing power and speed. I ran him in team , one position behind swing, the entire distance of this race, giving him a break in team to see what this racing was all about. We weren't going to apply too much pressure here for this young guy-this was about having fun and staying on top with a team that could have been 1st if I would have played my cards just right. I fed right for a warm 200, but could have fed better-with the colder temps. and wind on top of that, we could have fueled them up a little more for a stronger, faster end. I am convinced that our Galen dog was reincarnated..he's a natural born leader and this racing and checkpoint routine seemed to be "old hat" for this youngster. I've got big plans for him next year in Iditarod 2007. This is a dog who is all business & that's it. He's a simple dog with the idea that he loves to run more than anything else in the world. Galen: "What else is there to do??? "

North

3 years old. He ran with me last year in the Goosebay 120 in Knik, placing 4th. North went on to run the Knik 200 this year with John finishing in top shape. North is a very sweet & gentle dog, who works an honest day to the honest hour. I've always liked North very much, but worried about his head, he seemd to mature slower than the other dogs I've had since they were pups. He always had the potential to get weak on longer tougher running. I'm still in awe of his drive and perseverence. He's been with me for 2 1/2 years now and we see him as a very valuable player on the main team. Thank you North for giving your 110%.

JayJ

A rescue and Henry's brother-- He ran part of the Chatanika 200 (2005) with me, having issues with really soft stools that were only getting softer--I decided to drop him 45 miles from the finish line. JayJ is a hard keeper, gray in color, short coat. It was important for me to bring him back with me this year and run him the the entire race healthy and happy with his crew--and that we did it successfully. I told him I would take really good care for him and give him extra TLC when needed. JayJ is one heck of a dog who really loves this racing stuff. He would wag his tail each time I stopped to snack on the trail (fat snacks) and he was eager to pull my hook each time we stopped. JayJ is very strong! I actually carried that darm anchor the entire 200 miles. Normally I would drop it half way through the race.

The Race

This years race would present exciting new challenges along the way with sections of overflow as large as a parking lot. Jumbled ice, and barely a trail. It was a surprise for me at one point in the race when I had to walk the dogs across a very large and wide section of overflow and ice (two sections between Flattop and Angel creek got the best of us! ) around 6:30am -- we were moving really good and somehow missed the trail and all the dogs would ball up slipping on the ice..looking back at me like "where's the trail ma?" Quickly jumping off the sled I would unsnap JayJ's and North's tugs in back and then walk the ball of dogs over to the trail through the trees. It was very slippery and interesting to manage this ball of dogs looking at me with raised brow's and my sled in uniform all zipped tight, sliding back to the trail. Every dog had their eyes on me waiting for quiet and direct instruction. JayJ, so intent on pulling forward seemed more than okay with everything and ready to pull before I was back on the sled. It could have been messy but the dogs are well trained and eager to help figure it out as they want to get going, too and once we see the trail up ahead, we're busy getting things in order to get the train going again.

At one point I was dragging on my knees over the jagged ice trying to hold my sled back as the dogs gained trail and secured their footing, I was still dragging behind trying to flip my sled back upright. A "Whoa" ripped through my mouth and Pitch stopped. They waited a second for me to get back on board and I knew I was loosing lots of time..and I did loose ground on Richie's team-the minutes were fast sinking away & that really bummed me out at the time but I got over it, moving on and racing for 2nd.

We were over the best parts of the overflow now on that second leg, 3 1/2 hours into this 5 hour run-- the morning was bright overhead and my sled now totally iced over from the water and oce, I was standing on a mole hill of ice caked on my foot boards. There was one section I had stepped into a hole and my right leg took a nice dive into slush up to my waist. Thank goodness for my snow suit. I managed to stay semi dry. My right foot got wet and pants stuck frozen to my leg. I was nice and crusty! A few miles before reaching Angel Creek, I spotted a Blue parka up ahead...It's Bob! Whahoo! I was flippin rejuved now!!!

I haven't seen another musher for HOURS! We must be doing OK, if we're catching someone this time of morning! Yes man! I was very awake now! Bob's a nice guy with sweetie heart dogs. He was very friendly to see me again. After passing, we talked briefly about the nice trail and sections of ice and overflow. It was reassuring to see someone and have a brief moment to reflect the trail madness.

We had wind to deal with Friday night on the Chena Lakes, making it much colder than it really was. It was minus 18, add the wind chill factor and it was somewhere between -40 & 45 below according to the Fairbanks weather service. My snowsuit was waiting for me nice and snug in my checkpoint bag at Pleasant Valley. I was wearing my snowboarding bibs that first 97 miles. The dogs ran right into the wind putting their heads down and moving in a tight line forward. I would reassure them with "good dogs" and little praises down the trail. Pitch and Henry would lead us through this section of trail that would seem to go on forever, the wind would pick up chilling us to the bones, creating some mental frustration and physical discomfort. It was COLD and the trail was winding around in what felt like loops. I couldn't wait to get back into the trees!

Iowa Dome, was surprisingly pleasant this year with good snow. I always forget how long it is coming down and winding through the trees. I traveled behind Bill Steyer; having a flawless run. The long chute before ID was a thrill, both feet on the brakes at one point! I was traveling with Bob and Bill for some 2 hours off and on, we would pass one another and then re pass and then pass again, then Bob was in front and leading our threesome posse. I wondered how long this could go on for. I would eventually pass both teams later in this section (97 mile stretch) and then about 4 miles from the first checkpoint (Pleasant Valley) I would catch another musher, Yuka Honda's team. Glad to see a headlight in front of me in the trees, I called Henry up and we sped on in and passed her with ease. Sweeet. Now sitting in 2nd at PV, I decided to rest the dogs 7 hours and use the remaining 3 hours of mandatory time at Angel Creek-the 2nd and last checkpoint.

The dogs weren't tired when we arrived, looking around after we parked, they were eager to eat. Talking sweetly to the team, they agreed to get some rest. I bedded the dogs down right away on the straw provided, very hard clumpy frozen straw. Some of my dogs choose to sleep in the snow instead. I put blankets on a few dogs that wanted/needed them and let the others rest the way they like to rest- together. My leaders and swing dogs all curl up tight together. They all ate like they haven't ate in months! It's impressive to watch 12 hungry dogs really chow down after running a straight 97 miles!! Snapping up chunks of meat, pork fat and then slurping down soaked Eagle. Feet looked good at this point and all the dogs feel really healthy. They slept for aprox. 4-5 hours. I managed a 2 1/2 hour nap! I felt pretty darn good once I got back up and moving around. I slurped down some chili provided by the checkpoint, and dranks three bottles of juice and water. I was the 6th musher out that morning; leaving PV around 4:45 am. After resting at PV for 7 hours, we would be back on the trail for another 5 hours before reaching Angel Creek.....Only to rest 3 hours.

I had just enough time to quickly bed the dogs down, feed the dogs, check feet, feed myself, wish my husband a happy birthday and share a quick visit over breakfast before departing for the finsih line. We would have to now go back over the winter trail, managing much faster time over the ice. There was no time to loose if I wanted to make up time on Richie. I tried a few new leaders up on the way out of this checkpoint, they weren't interested. So, I went back to the drawing board with my three main leaders. I had 4 head on passes with the mushers still coming into Angel Creek that afternoon, and Yuka Honda leaving just three minutes behind me. I was sweating it bad the first hour or so, looking back over my shoulder. A big sigh of relief when I didn't see her. I didn't want to give up my position, not now. We had a great run up until the road crossing some 25 into the run. 25 miles left to go- the dogs started to slow some compared to my last two legs. I was doing the math adding the caloric intake and we needed to add just a touch more fuel! I was short somewhere along the way and the dogs were just running slowly out of steam.....still barking to go when we stopped and this tells me that their heads were all in the right place but their bodies were doing what they would do (slowing) due to fuel issues. After having much faster run times earlier in this race and compared to last years race times, and looking at the temps. this year and the timing of my snacks..ect. I knew what was going on and now I was kickin myself.

I promised Wilbur and Pitch that we were really close now, and once we got in, we would pig out on fish and fat snacks. I told them how much I appreciated each and every one of them. They made me proud. Just 10 miles to go. Coming down Pleasant Valley Road, we had two trucks on- coming and a dog truck stop on a corner with barking dogs in the boxes. The guy driving the truck jumped out to ask me what my name was and I told him and he clapped and smiled and waved his arms. We passed two dog lots with barking dogs running in circles around their houses and then we got chased down for 200 yards by a little tiny white dog that was no bigger than a lean mean cat, but faster than a rabbit..I was hollering and waving my arms down my my legs as he was going for the feet. I was thrilled to see the trail markers marking our right hand turn off the road....YES! We're getting off this road soon. As we ran into the finish line, two large black Ravens traveled overhead in what looked like a dance or graceful chase. The pair seemed so light as they bounced off one another in this exchange. Wilbur and Pitch led us in, happily to our finish. John and Deleen were there with huge smiles, then Todd and Finn pulled in. I was thankful to my dogs for working so hard and working together with excellent team effort. I must have been wearing a good size grin. JayJ pulled out a little bark and Henry wagged his tail. I want to say thank you to my friends for your support, my husband and Deleen for handling the dogs, and to all my sponsors who help us achieve our dreams of racing and support our lifestyle and love for the dogs. THANKYOU!!

Now a little side note-------->look for that silver lining!

I've got a little story on perspective I want to share with you. You know how sometimes we get these "ah-ha" moments...how good they feel and how uplifting they can be? I had one of those and thank-god, because I really needed a little nudge right then in there. We were sitting at Angel Creek, 25 minutes before I could leave with the team. I pulled on my favorite fur hat, looking over at the dogs, they were all stretched out sleeping under the warm touch of the sun. They were content. I, on the other hand was feeling frustration with the time lost on the trail to Richie's team, not wanting 2nd but pining for 1st, I sat there upset with myself for some of my minor race errors this time around & going back over in my head what I could have done differently. Then a woman and man with a large camera and youthful curiousity approached me wanting to talk about my race, they snapped pictures and I answered questions.

I had told them how I came to Alaska in 2001 with big ambitions of racing and how I've been at it now for 3 years, one year running Cotter's dogs for experience and the last two years with my own. She thought it seemed lucky that I've been doing so well so fast in the short 4 years I've been running dogs, and that things don't normally happen like this, and how she thought this race and a 2nd place standing was quite the accomplishment. It dawned on me right then and right there that she was absolutely right. I had been thinking more about what I wanted and not enjoying what I had...Even if I had been sitting in 3rd or 4th, I had all the reason in the world to be grateful and proud. We were doing Awesome!

She came out of the blue to talk to me, and I want to just say THANKS...

she was very kind and I hope I hear from her down the road.

I left the checkpoint more enlightened that day, and my mood changed and lifted from good to great.

My perspective changed and focus shifted. No doubt I was focused on securing my position in 2nd, but the way my mood and energy changed benefited the entire run in that last 47 miles.

So much to be grateful for.

Zoya and The DAWGS.

JayJ and Henry in wheel at the finish line of the Chatanika 200! JayJ was waggin his tail and Henry still had a lively bark for the small crowd. Henry lead about 100 or so mile of the race, running strong in lead with either Pitch or Wilbur. 

Zoya Captures 2nd place, Chatanika Challenge 200!

FAIRBANKS DAILY NEWS MINER

Sunday, March 19, 2006 - Staff Report

Richie Beattie cruised into the Valley Center finish line at 5:10 p.m. Saturday to win the Chatanika Challenge 200 Sled Dog Race that started at noon, Friday.
Beattie finished almost an hour ahead of his nearest competitor in the 200-mile race that started at Chatanika Lodge and wound it's way through trails in the Two Rivers area between Valley Center and Angel Creek Lodge.
As of 10:30 p.m. Saturday, seven of the 18 teams that started the race had finished. Three teams had withdrawn from the race and the other eight had all left the final checkpoint at Angel Creek Lodge.
Mushers will be honored at a finish banquet tonight at the Two Rivers Lodge.

Zoya Denure captured the runner-up position when she arrived at Valley Center at 6:06 p.m. and she was followed by Yuka Honda at 6:33, Kerrie Williams at 7:05, Bob McAlpin at 7:35, Rocky Demers at 9:13 and Phil Joy at 9:56.
Still on the trail are Bill Steyer, Beth Manning, Rod Boyce, Sigrid Ekran, Carol Blevins, Will Faulker, Matthew Zukas and Derek Meir. The three mushers who scratched from the race are Abbie West, Tammi Rego and Rick Townsend.

According finish times published on the Two Rivers Dog Mushers Association Web site Becca Ross captured the 100-mile race when she crossed the finish line at 11:07 p.m. Friday. The other five mushers in that event finished between 1:30 and 5:50 a.m. Saturday.
Janet Smith checked in at 1:30 a.m. Saturday, followed by Bob Hauer at 4:08, Iris Wood at 4:11, Ilana Kingsley at 4:50 and Bill Greenslade at 5:50.

Ready, set, go!

On our way north--after I write a quick little note.
The Race meeting is tonight at the Chatanika lodge-7:30pm. We'll pick up our friend Deleen first this afternoon in Fairbanks and then head to Grubstake for more fat.

Theresa Daily will be keeping race updates on the website as she hears from John via phone this weekend. It's supposed to be minus 25 Friday evening, so we're packed for all weather occasions. It's been hanging low in the minus 40's here in Paxson (evenings and mornings) so minus 25 shouldn't be too fridgid for us. One last run..yesterday I took my race team for one last run (and look) before racing this weekend. It' still a toss up between a few dogs, and I know it's not going to be easy making these last minute decisons, but we're bringing those extra dogs just in case I really figure it out!! It's tough leaving some of these dogs behind, knowing full well they should be on the trail with this team. Too many nice dogs to choose from, guess that's a good problem to have!

The team is very strong this year, and I've added North to the team now this year/a dog from Nenana. North is all grown up and ready to race. He'll run in wheel with JayJ. Those two have tons of power. I had a heck of a time stopping the team yesterday, and then pulling that anchor up and holding on to the sled as we bolted down the trail. Too many stops in the first 5 miles, dogs are still amped for about 50 before they settle into a nice pace. I had to stop & replace a few tuglines that broke, snaps were breaking, and dogs lunging. Henry was barking in Chuckie's ear, and Trapper was curling lips to Zither. It was a wild run, fast on these hard packed trails. The dogs don't want to stop, all they want to do is run forward. I'll be taking Galen in team and later leading him with Henry, this will be his first race. I'm a little concerned about the hills, we haven't done much hill training. The dogs are real fast on the flats and I'm hoping we can make up for any lost time once we hit those sections of trail. We're going in with a strong & healthy team, this time we'll watch those trailmarkers!!

My team and starting order Wilbur-Pitch
Chuckie-Probe
Henry-Galen
Cookie-Tokyo
Trapper-Zither
North-JayJ
See you soon!

Zoya

Just hanging out. Alaska 

Chatanika Challenge, 200 mile race

We'll be packing up and heading north for the Chatanika Challenge, a 200 mile race on March 17th and 18th 2006.
I'll officially sign up the night of the drivers meeting this Thursday at the Chatanika Lodge, 7:00pm. This is where we get more detailed information, go over race rules and draw for a starting number. The race starts Friday, at noon.

For more race information, check out their website at www.trdma.org
I'll post pictures and stories from the trail after our race next weekend. Wish us luck. More soon...

Zoya and the furry gang.

65 Miles across frozen Alaska terrain

65 miles

.

Soft, frosty snow crust shapes my parka ruff. Eyelashes coated in snow white crystals, and the warmth of my breath insulates the inside of my little sweet winter world keeping me toasty warm behind the runners. Adventure. This is my life.

Steering sharp around a 90 degree bend, down a narrow and winding path. Three more miles through the trees before we discover frozen swamps- ice covered with overflow, thin tall trees and tundra brush. We crest a small hill and then descent shooting down onto a river bed. We break new trail for 8 miles over gradual bluffs through Haggard Creek, cresting a hill and hitting the horizon. Alas, the sun seems much closer now and the mountains within reach. Shadowdancing, my team sprints around the river bends, ears perked up and faces animated. We're in the groove, working happily as a unit.

Mnt. Sanford is right there in front of me like an old friend opening the door to greet you inside. All of a sudden I am renewed with this sense of mortality. I am small, the world is big. We are all just taking part in this school we call life and we must remain open-hearted, forgiving, flexible and young. I want to think that I will continue to evolve naturally with the times, and continue to learn from all of these experiences in our life. We are now taking part in something more beautiful and much bigger than we can explain, words can't describe with the enormity of feeling this offers. These experiences and "Ah" moments lends itself to a feeling of ultimate living and supreme being- the backcountry of Alaska is supreme in it's most physical form. You cannot buy these feelings, nor experience them through a TV or a book. One must be willing to let go of their "normal" way of thinking and living Western world style- try getting back to the basics for a moment. Hear the wind, listen to the river rushing over the rocks, and open your heart to your pet...or a friend. There's so much to learn from the things right in front of you. Then, build your kingdom from there.

Make your kindgom beautiful reflections of your heart song.

People ask me "what does it mean to be addicted to the dogs?"

"It's like being with all your friends on a funky road trip to somewhere you've never been but always wanted to go " "You're excited, they're excited and you know it's not always going to be just what you had expected, but it could be that much more". It's important, and it's an adventure. The work is long hours but Super rewarding morally and physically, & the rewards of living & working for yourself are huge.

Gigantic.

The dogs have their own "thing" always going on in the kennel, we call this the dynamics. It's quite rewarding to help guide them along their journey as "sled dogs" or "house dogs" and help them be the best they can be in team or in lead. Or wherever they may fit in to the dog's world of things.

If you listen close, you too will hear their feet hitting the snow and the crunch of the runners gliding over crusted terrain. It's another day in paradise when I'm able to walk outside and hook up my team and leave the yard for another 65 miles.

Zoya DeNure

All Iced Up

5 am

Good Morning.

We were both up at the crack of dawn (ok, it was actually before the crack) , coffee brewing, talking about the dogs going on this 50 mile run to Maclaren River. We have two 12 dog teams in training on this 50 mile run/ 5hr rest jog. John would make the first trip solo while I stayed back today (my race team was off today) So, I would run the pups and old dogs, take care of old dog Bailey and fill one more jewelry order. Check, Check and Check.

Getting Ready to GO.

6am

John feeds the dogs, I prepare a light breakfast. The yard goes wild. 7:15 am, we're putting booties on the dogs and harnessing them one at a time. The sled is ready, packed with extra booties, tugs, soaked dog food, and trail snacks. Hunter and Sebe in lead with 10 dogs in tow. The wind was zinging all night at 40 mph and hadn't let up, not even for a second. By 8 am, they were blasting down the trail into the wind, Maclaren or bust. I had no doubt they would arrive by 1:15, and I would hear from John no later than 2. Our trips to Maclaren usually take us 5 hours or less, depending on trail and weather. However the flip side to that is --the weather can change everything out there--it's not always a cake walk, fast run--50 miler. We've seen the trail with deep soft snow, walking in front of the teams breaking trail one mile at a time until we hit the base trail beneath the snow drifts. I've been on a trip that took us 7 hours one way!! That was a challenge, fighting wind and snow, stopping the team every few hundred yards to clean the dogs eyes out of snow, patting each of them reassuring each dog that they were doing the right thing and that mom wasn't totally nuts. The good thing is-nomatter how long or grueling sometimes these tougher runs can be, we always make it home, safe, sound and the dogs come to respect and trust you even more than they had. So, the day was great for me, I had nice visits with friends over the phone, worked on my orders, trimmed dog nails, worked on race dogs feet, ran two teams out 6 miles, cleaned the yard 2x, met with Lee and his dogs and started my summer numbers list for tours.

Surprise

1:00 pm

The yard goes wild and I look out the window to see what all the excitement is over, it was still a zinging wind storm outside. The mountain range had disappeared from my work place window and the frozen lake seemed almost hidden by the windy-fog. Seconds later, a dog team appeared from the wind cloud.."It's Tucker and Sebe in lead and John coming back from his trip." "What the?" I knew it must be bad, like impossible, someone hurt? someone died, sled broken to smithereens....the Hwy was shut down to all winter traffic?? Something went very wrong for him to turn that team around and come home. We're both very adamant about our training schedule. I slipped quickly into my bunny boots, grabbed a wooly, hat, coat and mittens and ran outside down to the team. Lee was outside talking to John when I got on the scene of things. I asked right away what had happened and he said "impossible". "You can't get over 13 mile hill" He explained to me how the dog team was getting thrown down by the winds, and iced over by flying chunks of ice. The winds on the Denali Hwy were roaring at 60 mph, he fought through the wind to mile 10 on the Denali Hwy trying to get over the summit. He was literally blown off the trail and tossed off the hwy and down the bank, the dogs were lifted from their feet and skidding across the exposed pavement.

Persevere.
Eventually after hours of fighting through this wind storm, blowing off the road multiple times, and the sled breaking down, he was able to turn the team around successfully and come back down mile 13 for home. The road was groomed down to sheets of glare ice in certain sections, very tough going for the dogs feet 9and head, for that matter.) When they arrived, the dogs were still iced up pretty good. I was picking ice clumps out of Naknak's ears, Dude's legs and Fishheads tail. We went through all the feet, some were pink, tender and sore. Others were fine. A few of the dogs were quite stressed out, apparent in the stools. The dogs all looked to be happy (to be home) I suppose, tails wagging, and smiles big as Texas.

2:30pm every dog got fish and meat. I was glad they were all home safe and sound. Tomorrow, we'll run a 65, through the trees heading south to Sourdough. We'll do Maclaren perhaps, another day.

Just another day in Paradise.

Crazy Dog Kennel,

Goodnight

Zoya DeNure

It's "those eyes"..Mr. Storey 

March 7th 2006

Day 3 of Iditarod 34. It's been tough watching it from home on my computer screen. This is a race we'll be running next year and everything we do now is a stepping stone to get us one stone closer. Still can drive me nuts, though. The plan was to run it this year 2006 but I didn't feel like I had the right amount of experience or self- confidence that it took to do as well as I expect myself to do when I enter into Iditarod. So, last summer I decided I would wait one more year to gather and grow. Now, I'm kicking myself a little. Still gathering , still growing.

This afternoon after I got in from a short run, I had heard that my friend Lori Townsend broke a few ribs coming down Happy River. I phoned Rick (her husband) right away. He said it was snowing at the checkpoint and as soon as the airplanes could leave, they would fly her into Anchorage. Man, this is too bad. I know Lori and Rick have worked very hard to get there this year and this year being their last with dogs..we were all hoping for a good final run! What happened is Lori may have rested too long in Finger Lake and when she went to pull out, the dogs were totally amped to go rushing out; thus leading to the crash down Happy River. This is a stretch of trail you want your dogs to meander through, a litte tired is ok on sections such as this one. I can only imagine it at this point. Glad to see Ramey Smyth up in the top 20 thus far, would like to see Sabastion get in there, too. I hope Judy Currier (GIN GIN 120 CHAMPION) has a great race, would love to see her finish strong in the top of the field. And we're rooting for Doug or Iten, if anyone asks.

We have some very twisty trails here in the Paxson area, very narrow trails with trees, lots of stumps, brush and woody things poking out of the snow, leaving no room for error. I've been there and done that-the worst thing was my sled brake Breaking in one of the nastiest sections of trail. 12 dogs, me and the anchor! The anchor was my saving grace. Minutes later after rigging things back together with extra tugs, a little sweat on my brow we were on our way down our own little Happy River, Paxson, AK. I try to save this section for our last leg home from now on, not with a fresh team of 12. The sled can flex now, let me tell you this much. And we grow some more.

It was gorgeous day it was here in Paxson. Sunny friendly skies, 25F, and lots of good snow. I ran an 11 dog team of mixed dogs, some young, some old and a few that just don't fit into any particular team. We ran 6 miles, zooooooom.......it was a fun!

I had Henry and North in lead, pointed them in the right direction and we shot out of the yard like a bullet! The Peak and Naked litter are really growing up fast and I had to admit to myself today that I've been in denial of their growth, calling them "the pups" for a long time now. It's time to move on and get with it Zoya. They are far from being "pups" and more like teenagers with hormones. Storey is the wild one, like his father Trapper, he has "those eyes". Something in "those eyes". Storey is wild with excitement all the time, a little on going natural anxiety mixed with hormones, desire to run, jump and squeal for no particular reason at all times, this dog eats like a horse and as fast as a good eating dog will eat, his brother Capt. BLIGH, is hardworking on the line, this is a team dog who just fits right in with the bunch, serious to run, serious to play. Peak and Naked are both showing great natural running ability, fast trotters, and easy lopers. They will be 12 months this April. Wow. These dogs went from walking with me and Shannon last summer on the river --our daily walks, growing from baby small to adult size dogs, all so fast.

It's an amazing life we lead with dogs, never a dull moment and there is always something that needs doing. When I have free time (when we're not training dogs on longer runs) and should be making out my jewelry orders or recording my new poems for the book, like a child I procrastanate a few more hours and instead I take off outside with dogs for skiing or walking. It's hard to have all these dogs and not spend every minute with them as time allows. The two main race teams were off today and that leaves..20 some dogs in need of something to do and see....I took 10 loose dogs for a walk this afternoon while John went out to cut wood about 3 miles from the house, lakeside. I had loose with me, Ethan, Polar, Catania, Motta, Echo, Sharkey, Puck, Brook, Eddie and Bligh. We took off jogging for a while and the dogs would all run ahead and play. Then turn back and check in with mom. We kept walking and we walked until we hit John's wood cutting trail. I could hear the chainsaw faintly. 3 miles later, a little out of breath but having fun with these goofy dogs as they play and chase....John was happily surprised to see us all right there. "How many dogs are here" he asked. "10", I said with a huge grin. The dogs LOVED it. These little "field trips" are great fun breaking up the day for these dogs.
We gave Eddie a ride back on the snowmachine-between my chest and John's backside. Eddie's old body is starting to feel the aches and pains of 12. He's taken to the house-dog thing quite well, I must add. Eddie has quite the Iditarod history, running 8 straight Iditarod races with friend & top contender Ramey Smyth. Eddie was never "dropped" in any of the 8 races, with 8 thousand Iditarod miles in 12 years. Eddie has "come a long way baby" and is now a happily retired house dog/sled dog play mate.

Our handler Dorit is back in Whitehorse and soon on her way home to Germany. We really enjoyed her while she was here--and hope to see her back again one day.
Dorit, thanks for all your work and time. You did a great job here and the dogs will miss you much. I'll let you know how the "real races" go!

Check us out www.gumeeonline.com for a dog mushing article in a Wisconsin publication. It just came out and it's pretty darn good.

Thanks to new adopt-a-dog sponsors, Lois and John in Ohio, They are sponsoring HUNTER! Your names will be credited on the site, soon. THANKS, love Hunter.

Thanks to John Wilson and Coop, too. It was great meeting you kids, and thanks for the cd and everything else!

Have a great night, Happy trails.......

Zoya DeNure and all the furry friends.

Our shoot with SONY went Great; just days before Iditarod 34. We spent the day shooting with three film crews on Eureka/Sheep Mountain trails. We brought 12 dogs for the shoot, I ran 8 the first part of the morning, and 10 the last part of our day. SONY wanted to mount their 36,000 camera on my sled for the last part of our day and I have to admit, my heart was pounding so hard you may have been able to see it through my parka..I just didn't want to spill with this camera rigged on my sled. The camera itself weighed in about 22lbs, and the mount, another 5 lbs. SONY is creating their own promotional film with their NEW high definition portable camera..this should be ready to view sometime this April..with footage from Iditarod 34 as well. Hopefully we'll be abe to get this up on the site. More soon.....Zoya and John 

Back to the trails, more later on training and preparations for our trip to Maclaren River mid week. Zoya and the gang 

It's always a fun time, Anch. Alaska. Sourdough Mining Co. with G.B. Jones and friends.  

SONY and Crazy Dog Kennels

Hi everyone,

The last two days we've been training the two race teams on 45's. The day before yesterday we took the dogs out 45 miles on the Denali Hwy. Nice & easy rolling hills for 30 some miles--it's all road grade. Very pleasant. It wasn't much of a challenge but more of a scenic run than anything. We had clear skies and decent temps. hanging somewhere around minus 15. Yesterday was a great turn of events. We took two 11 dog teams out 45 the other way off the lake heading south, through the Meier's lake area and connecting then onto John's old trapline trail. 18 miles into the run on this winding and very narrow trail lined with trees, my sled tipped and hit a small tree, then another and then I lost my grip before I knew it, almost smashing into several small trees and brush. The dogs were gone for a split second and a tree caught my sled bringing them to a screaching halt. I was back on and we took off. John said later he had heard a groan from behind later asking me if I was okay. Not even 5 minutes later on this same trail, flying once again building speed as we ran through the trees, my brake broke right in half leaving me in a real tight spot! I hollered and then threw down my anchor-the anchor wondered and then caught itself in a bush. We stopped and I almost flew over the handlebar. John stopped ahead and helped me tie it back on with extra tugs. We took turns driving the sled, making sure it would stay until we made it home. Later this evening, coming down the CB mountain, it broke again at the bottom. Whew, at least it was at the bottom. After retieing it, we were off and safe back home before we knew it.

Wednesday morning, and we're preparing to head south to Sheep Mountain Lodge. We've been invited to participate in several interviews and video coverage with SONY and Jackhammer Productions on our racing (past and present) and rescue mission with these dogs. John and I will have the opportunity to do what we both love and that's running the dogs and talking about our lifestyle with them; anytime we can share with others what we're doing and how we're making a difference--is money in the bank. We will begin shooting Thursday morning through the afternoon. The dog's going are Wilbur, Pheobe, Pitch, Hunter, Henry, Naknek, Trapper, Storey, Marlin, Cookie and Zither. We'll take one sled and lots of gear, pictures and numerous publications for the crew to have. SONY is spending the day at Buser's, tomorrow with us and then the next three days on the Iditarod trail. SONY has come out with a new High Definition camera that's Portable! We'll recieve the footage from the shoot. We're thrilled and honored. THANKS SONY, and Erika Bishop for putting all this together--we'll see you soon!

ON Racing--the rumor has it that the Percy De Wolfe 200 mile race in Dawson will only be a mail race this year with no purse....if this is true, then we will skip the long drive and head north to Fairbanks for the Chatanika 200/March 17,18th 2006.(www.trdma.org)
Looks like this is the only other race going the month of March. Last year I had some pretty hard feelings towards that little mushing club- my 1st place win was taken away from me 30 minutes before the awards banquet for who knows why, we still don't know why they did this last minute as I'm still getting questioning emails a year later. What happened was this; my team took a trail loop backwards not cutting off any time, both trail heads marked---during this loop I had met up with the trailmaster on that trail, he had confirmed the ok with me and later the board met and also gave the ok. Given the ok for my winning time that afternoon only to be yanked back to 4th place, 30 minutes before awards ceremony. That hurt. I was so hurt and angry at the time --never thinking in a million years I would consider going back to race that race again. But time heals and we're still healing from that one. I wouldn't mind going back to run again, seeing if we can beat our last year's time out on the trail. The dogs all agree. I love that race trail with it's varied terrain and challenges. It's not an easy race by no means with Iowa Dome in there, overflow and ice--there's always somthing fun in there to keep your eyes wide open. We thrived on that stuff! We did great, and the dogs were loping in strong to each checkpoint and loping even harder the last 45 miles in off the Chena. It would be fun to go back and race again, and put the past behind me.

Iditarod weekend is right around the corner and we have several good friends running this year- We want to wish our friends Good Luck this year as you make your way down the trail! We'll be following your progress closely and training hard for our 2007 Iditarod.

Your friends,
Zoya and John