Much has happened since my last post. In fact, Siku Kennel was put on hold for a little bit, and for very good reason.
Paul Johnson (a.k.a. Uncle Putty to most here in Unalakleet), brother to Middy Johnson and fellow Siku Kennel musher, was unexpectedly taken home to be with our Lord in heaven last Friday, October 14th, due to complications from a routine surgery. A very sad time and big loss here in Unalakleet.
I did not know Paul well, but I do know he was a man of God who lived his life according to God's will. Paul was a great man who touched many lives - generous, unselfish, patient and very kind. I was greatly looking forward to working with and learning from him the ways of dog mushing. Paul ran the Iditarod sled dog race in both 1986 and 2011 with plans to run again this coming year, March 2012.
Last Wednesday the village of Unalakleet and others from all over the state came together to celebrate the life and faith of Paul. It was a blessed time of sharing each other's memories and honoring his life that he lived for our Lord. It is a comforting thought knowing he is no longer in pain and rejoicing in heaven.
On another note, the temperatures have been staying below freezing and the fluffy white flurries of snow are flying. This winter of mushing will be different than expected with the passing of Paul, but that does not change my excitement for what is yet to come.
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