First Iditarod: COMPLETE!

First, I apologize. I apologize for not having updated everyone on my status with the race. I think the last time I was on was last Thursday, but I'm not positive. Anyhow, we finished the race on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 p.m. It was THRILLING. If I could have spoken to someone, I would have screamed with joy! Instead, I was only able to bark- but boy, bark I did. Waiting for me at the finish line was my whole family, including Dave (in a wheelchair), who was absolutely ecstatic that I had completed the journey despite very little training. Mom and Dad gave me the biggest hug (and the most treats I've ever had at one single time; I remember because my stomach still hasn't recovered), and told me they loved me and that they couldn't have asked for a better dog. Well, I certainly couldn't have asked for better parents.

So, you're probably wondering what place we came in, right? Well, I can tell you it's not last, phew. I was so worried that we would be, and although I didn't have much expectation I knew we didn't deserve last place. Every year at the Iditarod several awards are given out. In addition to first, second, and third place, there is an award for the musher and his/her team who excelled in other ways besides having the best time. We won because, despite having lost one dog, we finished the race. In addition to a sum of money (somewhere around $10,000), Jesse won a new sled and all new gear. When he realized this, he decided that in light of Dave's situation, he wanted to give the new sleigh to Dave for when he recovers. Dave started crying, as did Mom (no surprise). He couldn't believe that along with life, he was given a new opportunity to pursue his dream. I couldn't be happier...and not only for Dave. This means that I'll be able to be part of his team one day!

The past few days have flown by, considering I've been sleeping the majority of the time. Apart from loving the REM cycle, I've been fed phenomenally as well. Not only am I getting my regular dog food, but Dad has been tending to throw in some meat and veggies to give me the protein I lost while on the trail. I know it's early now, but I'm getting really tired again so I'm going to have to sign off for now.

Loyally,
Lola