Klondike Adventure

Tomorrow is the anniversary of the coldest night of my adult life. Regardless of the excess in blubber I have strategically amassed over the years - it was no match for the freezer box we had to sleep in.

Eric's portable generator and subsequent electric heater went out 15 minutes after we turned in for the night to sleep in his cargo trailer. The boy scouts were comfortable in the tent with wood stove. It was at least -20F that night and my teeth rattled soo much I had to replace a few fillings.

Very few realize my motivation in helping with the incredibly successful scout pancake dinner and silent auction fund raiser we held later that Spring - but this pitiful Klondike experience was my main reason. With the proceeds from this fundraiser last May - we were able to afford a Scout Leader tent and stove. I'll be much more comfortable this year.

Below are some photos from last year......

One of many trout to end up in the frying pan later that night.

Catch of the day. All the boys caught their limit. From L to R: Ryan Breene, Colton Seely, Tanner Nelson, Karl Sluder and Me. This is a good group of Scouters!

This is my favorite pic. It doesn't matter how you hook 'em - just be sure to cook 'em! Doesn't that make your eyes water just a bit......

Make fun of my hat all you want. Us folically challenged folk need to cover up! This was at Little Wood Reservoir north of Carey, ID at the base of the Pio's. ("Pioneer Range" for you low - landers!) Back in those hills, there was a wolf scouting us out all day. He'd howl up a storm at us just so we knew he was watching. For those thinking this lent a more natural and authentic aire to the experience of ice fishing in Idaho's back country - you are wrong! It was an annoying reminder of our Federal Government's mistake to reintroduce this vermin to Idaho Public Lands. But I digress........ he was only checking out my hat as it turned out, and when I did not responde - he left. Wolves are soo intelligent and majestic. I'd wear one on my bald head for their intellect and majesty just like this Russian Red Fox.

Idaho mountain camping and cooking on a griddle in a canvas tent heated by a wood stove with a 6" spackle blade and leatherman to substitute for the spatula and knife. The drywall mud residue was chalky, but had a nice texture on the pallet with bacon and sausage.

Be Prepared!