It was a beautiful 30degree day for the start of the Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon very much appreciated by the spectators but a bit too warm for the dogs. We were delighted to discover a great spot to watch the teams come through the woods and descend into a turn after crossing Vermilion Road. Good photo opportunities, not many people and the dogs looked fresh and enthusiastic after just a half hour on the trail. Unfortunately, weather conditions were less than ideal as the too warm temperatures, light rain and then extreme cold and windchills caused more than half of the teams to drop out. The twelve finishers were warmly welcomed after 3 1/2 days on the trail.

If you've read Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson (or are planning on reading it) there's an event in Duluth on March 19 you won't want to miss. He will be speaking at the Marshal School at 7:00pm on that Wednesday. We have tickets available for you free of charge if you stay with us (only 2 rooms left), so give us a call soon. For more information about the book and Greg Mortenson check out his website www.threecupsoftea.com . I'm off to buy the book now so he can autograph it as well.

The extremely cold temperatures and ice shut down the Duluth schools for 2 days this week and Jim and I were stuck at the cabin up near Biwabik. An extra day wasn't hard to take, but we finally had to come home as we were running out of coffee and videos! The boys weren't too disappointed either with a bit of down time.

That's all from the good life in Duluth!

Joan and Jim

Bbbbrrrrr, it's cold outside, but toasty warm inside by the fireplace with a freshly made hot mocha latte in hand. The days are lengthening as well and we welcome the uplifting light of the sun. Cross country skiing has been fantastic this winter with our early snowstorms and there are many trails to choose from in and around Duluth. We're reluctant to go out when it is sub-zero, but will be swooshing down those trails again soon as temperatures rise.

The big upcoming event is the 25th running of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. This Saturday, January 26, is the opening gala dinner with speaker Sam Cook at the Inn on Lake Superior. Another event not to be missed on Saturday from noon to 2:00pm is the Cutest Puppy Contest at the Fitgers Brewery Complex. Go early before the puppies tire and the crowds are overwhelming. The exciting start of the marathon takes place on Sunday (11am - 3pm) at Ordean Middle School and is a free event. You can catch the excitement of the dogs as they await their turn to charge off down the trail and their gleeful yipping as they take off. After traversing nearly 400 miles up the North Shore and back, they will arrive at the finish line at Billy's on January 30. More information about the race can be found at www.beargrease.com.

The Ellery House has just posted two specials for the months of February and March. We're promoting the celebration of Valentine's Day all month long and will include our special handmade Belgian chocolate truffles and roses with any two-night stay in February. March is a great month to relax and rejuvenate, so we're offering half-price on the 3rd night of a three night stay! Give us a call if you want to take advantage of these specials (1-800-355-3794).

Thats all for the good life in Duluth!

Joan and Jim