The first morning in Inuvik (June 30th) started with a water pump repair, followed by some sightseeing.

Next, Maxi located a group of FOLs. I believe that stands for Forward Operation Lookout and that they essentially watch the skies for any encroachment. This is the largest group of military members we’ve seen in one spot since coming to Canada. They were all thrilled to sign Maxi, and look how the Canadian signature area is finally beginning to fill up!

And, introducing Chris Gavin, who has been the far north adviser for this tour. Chris works at the Inuvik weather station, which is part of the world-wide tracking system synchronized in Geneva. Check out these satellite dishes! They are incredibly beautiful.

Below is the local Catholic Church, Our Lady of Victory. It’s shaped (sort of) like an igloo, in honor of the local culture. Many of the interior paintings were painted directly on the walls by an indigenous artist, Mona Thatcher. We don’t have good photos of the windows, but although they look like stained glass, they are actually painted glass covered by plastic sheeting to protect them from the elements.

Lots more photos tomorrow, as July 1st is Canada Day, a holiday when Canadians everywhere celebrate the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation on July 1, 1867.  Originally called Dominion Day, this was when the three separate colonies of the United Canadas, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick were united into a single dominion within the British Empire called Canada. This was an important step on  the way to the country’s sovereignty. This will be a big day in Inuvik, just as in larger cities throughout the country. Stay tuned!