As I lay in my tent, the melodies of two harmonicas join the calmness of Aberdeen Lake and the gentle humming of the mosquitoes. These allow me to feel very still. After a week full of wind, cold, hefty gold good-byes and hellos, this is the first opportunity I've taken to reflect on the week.

We began our week on Wharton Lake, but we quickly made our way again to the Dubawnt River. This was a fun, fast section where the swift water, or small whitewater, was a blast to maneuver through. It was the entry into Marjorie Lake, where headwinds and frigid air greeted us. This is where our eating habits started to take a drastic turn, with extensive quantities of margarine at every meal and hot tea, coffee or latte, to keep us going. With lots of water and between 4-7 layers on our bodies at a time, we are staying warm and dry.

The last section of the Dubawnt was one of the most magnificent parts yet. The extremely fast current swept through the large, sandy cliffs on either side of us. When the sun snuck out, the cliffs would glow with browns, oranges and greens. We portaged around Mofatt Rapids, where in the 1950's a group dumped their canoes in the September cold. Art Mofatt did not survive through the rest of the expedition due to hypothermia. We then portaged the Gates, the rapids split by two islands, then pushed into the confluence of the mighty Dubawnt and the bold Thelon.

A celebration was had that only the BPE can have to commemorate this momentous occasion. I made a toast and Beth baked a delicious confluence cake. What is a confluence cake, you may ask? Well, it's a unique blend of gluten-free brownie mix and classic devil food cake, creating a rich slice of chocolate heaven. A branch was then tossed into the Thelon and we began our paddle to Aberdeen Lake. At lunch we were welcomed by two artic wolves. They got very close, but within a safe distance, then tried to get downwind to see what these strange creatures were. Once they realized who we were they bolted, but curiosity took over a few more times as they continued to check us out. They are some beautiful animals, white cream and light grey. They look much like my dog Dallas at home, but much larger with a gigantic tail. We finished lunch but kept our eyes peeled for more curious creatures.

Aberdeen Lake has marked the longest time I have consecutively been out on trail. I would have forgotten had it not been for Nina's kind reminder, and with that I couldn't believe it. As 90 days seems like a very long time, I have now been able to look at this trip as a whole, rather take each day at a time. At this rate I could stay out here and be so very happy forever. I have everything I could ever need. Please don't get me wrong, though; some Ben and Jerry's would be nice every now and again. I truly love this land, the simple way of life. I can appreciate each day for what it is. This is much more difficult back at home as the hustle and bustle of life takes your time. Life on the trail is special. I believe it grounds me and helps me to remember each day for what it is when I return home. Life out here couldn't be better and thanks to the watershed dry bags, our gun is dry and free of rust. Also, our cameras are safe and untouched by the rainwater.

Thanks again to all of those following us. Your support means the world. Before I sign off, I've been asked to share with you all, per Meg's request, that the 33 pound trout she caught will forever be named "Big Casey" for all those that may catch it again in Dubawnt Lake. Thanks again, until next time.

View Photos (received from the first resupply)
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