On the great Mackenzie River

July 2

As I write this, it is 1pm and I am sitting on the bank of the Mackenzie River, just out of Norman Wells, NT. It is sunny and gorgeous and I have no socks on. Who would have thought that you could get wireless internet here? Crazy.

Last night I went to my boss's Canada Day barbecue and afterward myself, Dan and Caroline decided to go for a canoe to the bar. We parked the canoe in front of the Black Knight Pub and just caught last call. I have more mosquito bites then I ever have had in my entire life. It was totally worth it!

This morning, a little worse for wear, Caroline and I got to the airport half an hour before our flight was scheduled to depart. However, what we didn't know was that boarding was at 9:50. According to the desk, our flight was closed, but after a little sweet talking, they let us on the plane, minus our checked luggage. Luckily Cindy, our expediter was there and was able to take the bags to send later today. I also forgot my hiking boots in my hungover haze, which Cindy will also send later today. I also forgot socks.

This afternoon we take a charter plane to Palmer's Lake, just beside the border with Yukon, at about 64 degrees latitude. Not quite the arctic circle, but still not too shabby for my first excursion. I can't believe I am being paid for this shit!

I would have to say that so far this has been one of my better birthday adventures.

-A.


Footnote: Norman Wells wireless was not quite hefty enough to actually upload anything there.