Oma with a view.....01-08-11 4am

Up bright and early again, the best time of the day.  You could say my view is limited because of the mountains or because it is black outside.  But I don't think so because my view is in my head, my imagination. (As if anyone cares) The inch of snow they predicted didn't happen, just a thin lacy covering on the deck.  After our cold spell it is a balmy 22° outside with a slight breeze.  The Eagle Cap Extreme dog race will finish the 100 mile today and 200 tomorrow.  It is an exciting time in the valley with sled dog teams coming from all over the world, as they try to qualify for the Iditarod.  Outposts are set up at Salt Creek Summit and Ollokot.  Tents and supplies are hauled into these places, much of it on snowmobile, so the sled drivers and crews have a place to check in, rest, and eat.   Many of the staff are volunteers.  The community center in Joseph is "race central" where the festivities start with the initial check-in and the final dinner is held and rewards are awarded.  Main street of Joseph on Thursday morning was the place to meet and greet the dogs and owners.  School children come not only from the Wallowa Valley but by bus from Union County for this unique opportunity to touch and pet or just look at real live sled dogs.  The "Big Read" is the next happening in Wallowa County, kick off is Sunday 7:00pm at the Odd Fellows Hall in Enterprise, hope to see you there.  More Later.