When things get tough out there, each musher has “that go to DOG”. The one who gets the job done no matter what. The one who also prefers to do the job on his or her own. The fact that I saw both, Mitch and Aaron out out on the Unalakleet River coming in with single leaders, speakes volumes.

Mitch was about one mile ahead of Aaron. In the meantime, the community is getting ready. The mushers arrival is a BIG DEAL. They have running water here, courtesy of volunteers running with buckets. Heck, feels like home. 

Enjoy the shots., as you can tell a bit gloomy morning here. BUT that means NO WIND. And no wind, in the land of the east wind, is a VERY GOOD THING! Both mushers had a very long run and will need to take a good long rest here. Its going to be an interesting situation, with Jake, Jeff, Aily, Joar all resting on the trail, thus leaving more gas in the tank. It is a very delicate line, of when to hold it and when to fold it. In general, keeping the dogs in their comfort zone is always a good thing. But then if the conditions stay good, catching up might be tough. If like now, conditions are challenging, then an extra rest on the trail does wonders.

Although none of them are in lead right now, my eye is on Jake, Jeff and Dallas, as they are playing a very smart game.