Ann Mariah Cook > Quotes

“The scientists who tell us that dogs are simple creatures have never owned sled dog teams. They have never tried to organize twelve minds and forty-eight canine legs into a unit that moves forward with conviction. The physical differences in dogs are sometimes the least of the musher’s worries when matching up a team. He must consider the dogs’ personality quirks and varying degrees of dedication. When a well-trained team glides quietly down the trail, spectators may think the sport looks easy, but I guarantee that the driver of that team has put in his time.”
― Ann Mariah Cook, Running North: A Yukon Adventure

“We let our dreams take over. We stopped saying someday and started saying next year, next month, next week.”
― Ann Mariah Cook, Running North: A Yukon Adventure

“As we pulled up to the kennel yard, I felt the sense of mystery that I always felt when I saw sled dogs run. It amazed me that they worked this happily and this hard for food, shelter, and human affection. Each day was an adventure for them, each practice a new challenge. What secret, held deep inside them, made them want to do this work? They were admirable creatures, beautiful to look at, breathtaking to watch. How lucky I felt that they were willing to pull me through the Alaskan woods and take me places I otherwise could never go. They were magnificent and they chose to love George and me. What human could ask for more?”
― Ann Mariah Cook, Running North: A Yukon Adventure