I've always been fascinated by the art of mushing. A few years ago, Tyler took me on a surprise Christmas outing to see his friend's sled dog team. After meeting all the pups and getting to ride across the snow, pulled by a team of happy, furry runners, I became even more enamored with the sport. Just this past Christmas eve, I watched half a season of Iditarod as I stayed up late finishing hand-knitted presents.

Much to my delight, Tyler treated me to a surprise birthday outing this morning! He had organized a visit to meet Allan and his wife Suzanne, and their mushing dogs. The tour began inside the kennel, and in the furriest, sweetest mayhem of tail-wagging and canine kisses ever, we met all sixteen pups.

Over the course of the next two hours, we heard the story of how Allen and Suzanne were lured into the world of mushing, and how they went from owning a single husky as a pet, to owning sixteen and thinking of them as family. We also learned a bit about the history of the mushing lifestyle, got to see their sleds and harnesses, and finally, were treated to some of the best hot chocolate I have ever had.

Thank you for organizing my birthday mushing surprise, Tyler!

Thanks Allan and Suzanne, for sharing your time and wisdom with us!

Greatest surprise, ever!