Handmade Candy Canes: A Sweet Holiday Tradition in Diamond Valley

 

 

Handmade Candy Canes: Made at Chocolate by Cotton

Step into the enchanting world of handmade candy canes at a charming chocolate shop in Diamond Valley, Alberta (formerly Black Diamond). This captivating video captures a skilled Swiss-trained candy maker demonstrating the mesmerizing art of crafting these iconic holiday treats from scratch.

Watch as hot sugar mixture is stretched, aerated, and expertly twisted with vibrant red and white stripes, infused with refreshing peppermint. The process—pulling, folding, and shaping while still warm—feels like edible glassblowing, requiring precision, heat-resistant gloves, and years of experience.

From small 4kg batches on a heated table to the physical artistry involved, it's a festive reminder of why hand-pulled candy canes taste so much fresher and more delightful than store-bought versions.

Perfect for holiday inspiration or a sweet local Alberta gem—don't miss this behind-the-scenes magic!

Check out the full demonstration: Candy Cane Making in Diamond Valley

Welcoming a Bright New Year 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcoming a Bright New YearAs the clock strikes midnight and we step into 2026, let’s embrace the magic of a fresh beginning with open hearts. Happy New Year to all—may it bring you warmth, laughter, and countless moments of joy.The turning of the year is more than a date on the calendar; it’s an invitation to release what no longer serves us. Let go of the negativity that tries to linger—the doubts, grudges, and heavy thoughts that follow like shadows. Gently set them aside and make room for happier ones: memories that make you smile, dreams that excite you, and small daily joys that restore peace.Replace worry with gratitude, frustration with kindness, and fear with hope. In doing so, we create space for serenity and strength. Here’s to a year filled with positive thoughts, peaceful days, and heartfelt connections. Wishing everyone health, happiness, and all the very best ahead. Best WishesMagdelene 

Capturing the Beauty of Nature

Capturing the Beauty of Nature: Easy Tips from a Calgary-Area Nature Lover

As a vlogger and blogger based near Calgary, I'm constantly inspired by Alberta's diverse landscapes, from the flowing rivers of the Bow Valley to the dramatic prairie sunsets. Nature photography is all about patience, observation, and letting the natural world shine. Whether you're spotting wildlife along the river or chasing golden hour light, here are some simple tips to elevate your shots. First, get out at the right time. Golden hour, sunrise or sunset, bathes everything in warm, soft light. Silhouettes of trees against a fiery sky create stunning drama, while avoiding harsh midday shadows. 

Second, focus on wildlife patiently. Birds like ducks or mergansers often perch on logs in calm waters. Approach slowly, use a zoom lens if possible, and wait for natural behaviour, preening, swimming, or resting, to capture authentic moments.

 

Third, compose with intention. Use the rule of thirds: place your subject off-centre for balance. Include foreground elements like rocks or branches for depth, and reflections in water for symmetry.

 

Finally, respect nature, keep distance from animals, stay on trails, and leave no trace.With these basics, anyone can create beautiful images. Grab your camera (or phone!) and explore our local gems. Nature's always putting on a show!

Christmas Lights Spruce Meadows with KassDays

 

 

Magical Christmas Lights at Spruce Meadows: A Calgary Holiday Highlight

Just south of Calgary, the world-famous Spruce Meadows transforms into a winter wonderland each December with its spectacular Christmas lights display. Known for hosting international equestrian events, this iconic venue dazzles visitors with millions of twinkling bulbs stretching over 50 kilometres, illuminating whimsical scenes like glistening horses, shimmering peacocks, bears, foxes, light tunnels, and towering trees. It's a beloved Calgary tradition that captures the pure magic of the holiday season. This year, the experience has evolved into the Enchanted Festival at Spruce Meadows, a magical walk-through event replacing the classic drive-through for safer, more immersive fun. Running select evenings from December 5–7, 12–14, and 19–24 (5–9 p.m.), guests stroll through sparkling outdoor paths, warm up by crackling fire pits, enjoy food vendors like wood-fired pizza and hot drinks, and explore indoor highlights in the Equi-Plex—including Calgary's only indoor Christmas lights maze, family movies (from The Grinch to classics), interactive displays, and photo ops with a giant tree and train. On KassDays, Calgary vlogger Kass shares his personal visit to this festive spectacle in the video below (captured during a previous year's glowing display). Watch as he wanders through the radiant lights, capturing the joy and sparkle that make Spruce Meadows a must-see Calgary Christmas attraction. Tickets are required—grab yours at sprucemeadows.com/enchanted. Proceeds support local food banks and pet charities. Whether you're a local or visiting Calgary, this enchanting display is perfect for creating holiday memories!

Heart Pounding Skijoring in Millarville Alberta

 

 

Heart-Pounding Skijoring: The Ultimate Winter Thrill with Horses and Speed!

Nothing captures the wild spirit of winter quite like skijoring, that exhilarating extreme sport where a galloping horse and rider tow a skier at full throttle over jumps, around gates, and through snow sprays! This video dives into the non-stop action at a skijoring event held at the Millarville Racetrack in Alberta, where cowboy heritage meets high-octane adventure. Even on a freezing cold day, the excitement is off the charts. Powerful horses charge down the track, pulling fearless skiers who soar over massive jumps, snag rings mid-air, and carve tight turns – all while gripping a tow rope! The crashes are spectacular, sending up plumes of powder, but the successful runs? Pure magic. The bond between horse and rider is incredible to watch; these magnificent animals love the run, powering through with unmatched strength and heart. I absolutely love being around horses, their energy and beauty make events like this unforgettable. The thrill of standing track-side, feeling the ground rumble as they thunder past, is addictive. Participating looks insanely fun (maybe one day!), but for now, capturing it all on camera lets me soak in every moment safely. This is extreme winter sports at its best: raw, authentic, and full of adrenaline. If you're into horses, skiing, or just epic outdoor action, skijoring will blow you away. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/kdDXOnijizk