This morning my day began in my city apartment in Chicago, where it was a wonderful 47* outside.  However, it will end quite differently.  By the end of the day today I will be in Wasilla, AK preparing for my five week adventure, which includes a stay in Nome where the high today is -8*.  My students and I have been tracking the weather for the last few weeks, and Chicago has been about 20* warmer than any of the places we have been checking on (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Huslia, and Nome).  I have attached a few sheets you can use to post the daily weather in your classroom (I laminated these and use a dry erase marker to change the weather each day).  Many teachers also create a graph of the temperatures each day.

Iditarod Weather

I had the most wonderful send offs from my students, co-workers, friends and family.  I was showered with cards and well wishes all of last week, and we even had a little ice-cream party during our staff meeting on Wednesday (ice cream is my favorite food).  I am so thankful for all the support from my friends, family, students, Irish dancers, fellow teachers, and administration.  This whole thing is a team effort and I would not be here without any of you.

For all of you who are looking to follow your favorite mushers along the trail now is the time to get an Iditarod Insider Classroom subscription!  This is the best way to get all the latest videos and updates right from the trail!  And with a Monday start to the race, wouldn’t it be awesome to watch the live stream from Fairbanks with your students!? Click here to get your subscription today! 

The Iditarod Alphabet 2017

During my time in Alaska I am going to be posting “The Iditarod Alphabet 2017”—a letter per day that correlates to the race.  You and your students can check back each day to see the new letter of the day. 

Today’s Letter:
A is for Anchorage

Anchorage is home to the ceremonial start of the Iditarod which takes place on Saturday, March 4.  This year 72 mushers will cross the start line at 4^th Avenue and D Street.  55 mushers are veterans and they have finished the Iditarod before.  18 mushers are rookies, and have not yet completed the Last Great Race on Earth.  Eight countries will be represented at this year’s race: USA, Canada, England, Sweden, France, Norway, Czech Republic, and Hungary.

A is for Anchorage