White Horizon 2023 - Arrival

When we arrived at approximately 10:30, Konstantin dropped us off at the guesthouse. We went to the bathroom, settled into our rooms, and only then realized that the others had been waiting for us in the main house with breakfast (normally served at 9 am) - oops.

The first introduction was a bit tense but relaxed at the same time. With each day, we discovered the names of more people (mainly volunteers).

Matilda, Nele, Melissa, Svenja, Marlene, Phil, Nick, Kris

They all came to the farm through a website that connects various social/environmental projects. In order to work and live here, they pay €900 for the first two weeks and then €200 for each additional week. Konstantin says that in the summer, when they don't have husky tourism but only rent out the guesthouse to autonomous guests, the money from the volunteers helps them get by. They are responsible for cleaning, cooking, maintaining order in the houses, as well as taking care of the dogs, who need daily food, exercise, and love. In addition, the kennel must be kept ice-free and clean.

Johannes is a permanent employee who will soon have his own lead dogs due to a farm closure.

Johanna is Konstantin's girlfriend (?) and is also an owner and guide.

After breakfast, we familiarized ourselves with the surroundings. The village of Långviken (translated as Long Bay) has 8 inhabitants and an unelected mayor - the 'Village Elder.' He knows exactly when the ice is walkable/drivable and can answer any other local question with his 70 regional years. However, according to Johannes, there shouldn't be a Swedish tradition of electing a village elder. Långviken is the long bay that extends to Lake Storavan (translated as Big Lake). The lake freezes completely in winter and is used for various activities.

The first snow angels were made, the first reindeer spotted (after having two goats that regularly ran away, they shot them and fed them to the dogs. Instead, they now have two reindeer that Konstantin got from a Sami friend. They always need reindeer that are used to humans, as it makes herding easier when the lead reindeer follow the snowmobile. He often helps the Sami friend bring the reindeer to the slaughterhouse), the first dogs were petted (that must be Laban), and the first steps were taken in deep snow over the lake. Most likely, lunch followed immediately (which consisted of leftovers from the previous evening's dinner and bread every day).

After our trip, tiredness struck, and we dozed off in bed/on the couch. Some members of the group preferred to play around with various Snapchat filters (yes, at that time the person in question was already 27!). However, Taube is doing quite well.

Before dinner, we ventured on another snow walk and then gave up quite early. Slept like a rock.