A Majestic Visitor on the Lawn This Morning

This handsome fellow decided to make himself right at home on the front lawn this morning!  Just lounging comfortably under the tree, soaking up the early light like he owned the place. Look at those beautiful antlers and that calm, confident expression — what a total stud.  He was so relaxed and unbothered by me snapping pictures just a short distance away. 

 

These moments always feel a little magical. Living in Alberta, we get our fair share of deer visitors, but this big buck was extra photogenic today.  Definitely one of the most majestic front yard visitors we’ve had in a while. 

 

Thank you, Sir Buck, for brightening up the morning!  

Do you have any photos of a grand creature you wish to share? Are you as giddy as me when they show up and choose a spot near your house to chill for a bit?

I keep my distance and zoom in, I don't want to annoy him and I want him to be able to just chill out and get some zees in peace.

 

 

 

Photography Wildlife Without Disturbing It

How to Photograph Wildlife Without Disturbing It
(A Quiet Morning with Crows in Okotoks) 
 

I spotted these two beautiful American Crows on a recent morning walk in Okotoks. One was perched solo on a dead branch against that perfect blue sky, and moments later his friend joined him. Instead of trying to get closer for “better” shots, I stayed back, kept quiet, and let them be. The result? Natural, peaceful photos — and two unbothered crows who continued their morning as usual.  
 
Here’s the short version of how to photograph wildlife responsibly: 

- Keep Your Distance 
- Use your zoom (or a longer lens if you have one) instead of approaching. Crows are smart and cautious — if they feel safe, they’ll often stay put and act naturally.
- Move Slowly and Quietly
- Avoid sudden movements or loud voices. I walked normally, stopped        when I saw them, and just waited. Patience almost always beats chasing.
- Blend In, wear neutral or earth-tone clothing. 
- Stand near trees or bushes rather than out in the open. The less you look like a threat, the more relaxed the animals will be.
- Respect Their Space. if the animal looks at you, changes position, or starts calling alarm notes, you’re too close. Back off slowly. The goal is to capture their natural behaviour, not stress them.
- Enjoy the Moment

Sometimes the best part isn’t even the photo — it’s watching them interact in their own world. These two were clearly comfortable with each other, and I loved just observing. Wildlife photography is so much more rewarding when the animals don’t even know you’re there. Whether you’re photographing crows, deer, birds, or squirrels on your morning walks, giving them space is the golden rule. 

Have you tried photographing local wildlife? Drop your tips or favourite respectful wildlife moments in the comments!

Time spent out in nature is a soul calming experience for me, the natural beauty that surrounds you, it is worlds within a world, 

Let there be beauty and let us truly see it and enjoy it.

How to Prepare for an Epic Hike into Horseshoe Canyon, Alberta

 A How-To Guide Exploring Horseshoe Canyon

If you’re looking for a stunning badlands adventure that feels like stepping into another world, Horseshoe Canyon (near Drumheller, Alberta) is an absolute must-visit. This dramatic horseshoe-shaped canyon carved into the Canadian Badlands offers breathtaking layered rock formations, sweeping views, and a sense of ancient wonder that truly “talks” to your soul. The photos you shared capture its magic perfectly — from golden sunsets lighting up the hills to the wooden boardwalks and trails overlooking the valley.  
Horseshoe Canyon 
 
Location & Getting There

Horseshoe Canyon is located about 17 km (10 miles) west of Drumheller in Kneehill County, right off Highway 575. It’s an easy drive from Calgary (about 1.5–2 hours) and makes a

fantastic day trip or multi-day getaway in the heart of Alberta’s badlands. Free parking is available at the top, with viewing platforms and trails leading down into the canyon.  Not sure about the free parking at peak tine, there was a time when there was a vehicle set up that was collecting a parking fee, not sure if that is still so, or not?
 
Camping Nearby – Book Ahead!

For the full experience, stay at the Horseshoe Canyon Campground, just steps from the canyon rim. This family-friendly spot offers:

• Serviced RV sites 
• Tent camping 
• Cozy cabins 

It’s the perfect base for sunrise and sunset hikes, stargazing, and exploring the area without rushing back to town. Summer gets busy, so book your site well in advance through their website or Campspot!  
 CAMPSPOT 
 

Hiking Tips: Preparing for the Descent & Ascent

The main trails take you down into the canyon for close-up exploration of the eroded hills, dry creek beds, and unique geology. Important: You cannot drive down — it’s all on foot. The hike down is steep in places, and the climb back up can feel much tougher, especially in heat.

Essential Preparation for Summer Hikes:

Water, water, water! Bring at least 2–3 litres per person (more if you’re spending several hours down there). There’s no reliable water source in the canyon. 
Sun protection is non-negotiable: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen (reapply often), sunglasses, and light long-sleeved clothing. The badlands offer very little shade once you’re down in the valley. 
Timing matters: Avoid the hottest part of the day (midday in summer). Start early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and beautiful light. 

Clothing & footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip — the terrain is uneven, loose, and can be dusty or muddy after rain. 
Pace yourself: Take breaks in any available shade. Listen to your body — the return climb is the real workout. 
Safety first: Limited cell service on the canyon floor. Tell someone your plans and expected return time. Know your limits, especially if hiking with kids or pets.  

Other helpful items to pack:

• Snacks/energy food 
• A small first-aid kit 
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife 
• Camera or phone for those stunning photos 
• Rain jacket (weather can change quickly) 

The trails range from easy boardwalk sections at the top to more adventurous paths below. You can keep it short or explore deeper — it’s very customizable.

Why Visit Horseshoe Canyon?

This place combines natural beauty, peaceful solitude, and that unmistakable badlands magic. Whether you’re watching the sun dip behind the hills, wandering the pathways, or simply soaking in the vast valley views, it’s a spot that stays with you.

Horseshoe Canyon is open seasonally — check current conditions on the Kneehill County website before you go. Pack smart, respect the land, and you’ll have an unforgettable Alberta adventure!

 

Happy hiking!  

 
 

Lord Strathcona's Horse | Musical Ride at Spruce Meadows

 

Lord Strathcona’s Horse: The Epic Story of Canada’s Victoria Cross (4K) 

Captured at Spruce Meadows – Fall 2025

KassDays is excited to share our latest video release! Last fall at Spruce Meadows, we were fortunate to film the stunning Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) Mounted Troop in full ceremonial performance. This 9:36 minute 4K video showcases the power, precision, and proud heritage of one of Canada’s most legendary regiments.

From thundering cavalry charges and synchronized flag drills to the iconic Musical Ride, the troop delivered an unforgettable display of horsemanship and military tradition on the beautiful grass rings of Spruce Meadows. Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/ghhpT7gQS7A

Why This Performance is Special

The Strathcona Mounted Troop keeps alive the cavalry traditions of the regiment that has served Canada with distinction since the late 1800s. Many viewers will be moved by the connection to the regiment’s multiple Victoria Cross recipients — Canada’s highest award for bravery.The striking red tunics, perfectly matched horses, and flawless teamwork make this one of the most impressive living history displays in Western Canada. Spruce Meadows provided the perfect backdrop with its wide-open fields and mountain views.

Whether you’re into horses, Canadian military history, equestrian events, or simply love spectacular Alberta moments, this video is a must-watch.
 
If you enjoyed this video, please hit the thumbs up, leave a comment, and subscribe to the KassDays YouTube channel so you never miss future releases!

Stay connected with KassDays for more adventures across Alberta — from world-class equestrian events and road trips to hidden gems and everyday Western Canadian life.

Thanks for watching and supporting independent Canadian content! Suggested Tags for Blogger:
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How to Capture Stunning Animal Photos at the Zoo (Without Disturbing the Wildlife)

Hey everyone! 

Today I’m sharing one of my favourite photos from a visit to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo a couple of years ago — a gorgeous male peacock proudly displaying on a tree stump with a group of Chilean flamingos wading in the background. It’s a perfect example of how you can get beautiful, natural-looking shots in a zoo setting while respecting the animals.  calgaryzoo.com
 
Why This Matters - Zoos give us incredible access to animals we might never see in the wild, but the goal should always be minimal disturbance. Good photography technique not only improves your images — it keeps the experience positive for the animals too.

Here’s my step-by-step guide to taking better zoo photos responsibly:

• Respect the Animals First  Keep your distance. 
• Don’t tap on glass, call out, or try to get their attention.   
• Never use flash — it can startle or stress animals (many zoos ban it anyway).   
• Follow all zoo rules and signage. At Calgary Zoo, the free-roaming peacocks are especially popular, so give them space to do their thing naturally.   
• Be patient. The best shots happen when you wait for the animal to behave naturally. 

Gear & Camera Settings  Use a zoom lens (70-300mm or longer if possible) so you can frame tightly without getting too close.  Personally, I used my phone 😁
Shoot in Aperture Priority mode with a wide aperture (f/4 or lower) to blur backgrounds and fences.   
Fast shutter speed (1/500s or higher) for any movement.   
Turn on continuous auto-focus if the animal is active. 

Composition Tricks for Natural-Looking Shots  Get down to the animal’s eye level (squat or kneel) — this makes a huge difference.   
Look for clean backgrounds. In my peacock shot, the grassy area and pond helped frame the bird beautifully.   
Shoot through fences or glass at an angle with a long lens to make barriers disappear.   
Watch the light — early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) gives softer, more flattering light. 

Bonus Pro Tips  Visit on weekdays or early in the day for fewer crowds and better animal activity.   
Observe behaviour first. Peacocks often display when they feel safe and relaxed.   
Bring a cleaning cloth for your lens — zoo glass and outdoor elements can get smudgy! 

This photo was taken on a lovely spring/summer day when the peacocks were out roaming and the flamingos were active near the water feature. Moments like these remind us why supporting places like the Calgary Zoo matters — they do important conservation work while letting us connect with wildlife.

Have you tried zoo photography? Drop your own tips or favourite animal photos in the comments! And if you’re planning a trip to Calgary, add the zoo to your list — it’s fantastic.

 

How to Make a Beautiful Eco Resin Dragon (Reading Book Sculpture)

Hi everyone! Today I’m sharing an easy, beginner-friendly project: creating this charming little dragon reading a book using Eco Resin Casting Powder. It’s a fun, non-toxic, water-activated material that’s perfect for detailed silicone molds. I got my gorgeous dragon mold from Temu, and the whole process was quick and satisfying.

Materials You’ll Need:  

• Eco Resin Casting Powder (available on Temu, Amazon, etc.) 
• Silicone dragon mold (I used a detailed reading dragon one from Temu) 
• Digital scale (for accurate measurements) 
• Mixing cup and stir stick 
• Water (room temperature) 
• Sandpaper (fine grit, optional) 
• Acrylic paints (I used metallic silver, gold, bronze, and black) 
• Paintbrushes 
• Clear sealer or varnish (to protect the finish) 
• Paper towels or a tray for workspace 

 
Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prepare your workspace 
• Cover your area with paper towels or a plastic tray. This stuff sets fast! 
• Mix the Eco Resin 
• Follow the ratio on your powder (usually 3 parts powder to 1 part water by weight). 
• Example: For a small dragon like this, I used about 150g powder + 50g water. 
• Stir thoroughly for 1–2 minutes until smooth and creamy (no lumps). Work quickly — you have about 5–10 minutes before it starts to thicken. 
• Pour into the Mold 
• Tap the mold gently on the table to release air bubbles. 
• Slowly pour the mixture into the mold, filling all the details. Tap again to remove any trapped bubbles. 
• Let it Set 
• Wait about 30–60 minutes (depending on your brand and room temperature). It should feel firm and cool to the touch. 
• Demold 
• Carefully flex the silicone mold and pop out your dragon. 
• Let it cure fully for 24 hours for maximum strength. 
• Paint & Finish 
• Lightly sand any rough spots if needed. 

I painted mine with metallic acrylics — silver body with gold accents on the wings, books, and details. Add shading and highlights for that realistic look. 
Once the paint is dry, apply 1–2 coats of clear sealer to protect it. 
 
And that’s it! You now have your own eco-friendly, larger-than-life (in personality) little dragon companion.This project is great for gifts, desk decor, or just because dragons are awesome. The powder is affordable, low-odor, and much easier than traditional epoxy resin.

Have you tried Eco Resin Casting Powder yet? 
Let me know in the comments what you’re making next!

Happy Crafting! 

Easy Hybrid Sourdough Loaf – My Go-To Recipe

Sourdough Loaf on Cooling Rack 
Golden Sourdough Bread 
Sourdough Baking in Oven

This beautiful loaf came out of my oven a couple of days ago and I’m still proud of it! It’s a hybrid sourdough recipe — it uses an active sourdough starter plus a bit of instant yeast for extra reliability and rise. 

Once you have a healthy, bubbly starter, this bread becomes wonderfully easy and forgiving.Ingredients (makes one large loaf)

600g bread flour   
1 tsp salt   
1 tsp sugar   
300ml water   
125g active sourdough starter   
½ tbsp instant yeast (quick-rise yeast) 
 
Method

Mix the Dough 
Add all ingredients into your KitchenAid mixer (or mix by hand). Let the mixer do the work on medium speed until the dough comes together into a smooth ball. 

Bulk Fermentation with Stretch & Folds 
Let the dough rest for 30 minutes. 
Then perform a set of stretch and folds. Repeat this every 30 minutes for three more sets (total of 4 stretch & fold sessions). This builds great structure without heavy kneading. 
Shape & Final Rise 

Shape the dough into a tight boule. Place it seam-side down on a piece of parchment or directly onto your baking setup. Let it rise until nicely puffed (time varies depending on your kitchen temperature). 

Score the Loaf 
Just before baking, use a sharp lame or razor blade to score the top of the loaf with your desired pattern. This helps the bread expand beautifully in the oven. 
 

Bake  Preheat oven to 470°F (243°C) with your cast iron plate or baking stone inside.   
Place the loaf on the hot cast iron plate.   
Bake at 470°F for 10 minutes, misting the loaf with a fine water spray at least 3 times during this period for a great crust.   
Reduce temperature to 430°F (221°C) and bake for another 20 minutes.   
Keep an eye on it — you want a deep golden brown crust. 

Total bake time: about 30 minutes.

Tips for Success

A good active sourdough starter makes all the difference, but the added yeast gives this loaf extra insurance and a lovely open crumb.   
The stretch & fold technique is gentle but very effective — perfect if you don’t want to knead by hand.   
Misting in the first 10 minutes creates steam for that shiny, crackly crust.   
This is based on an old European-style bread recipe and works really well as a daily baker. 
 
This loaf had a crisp crust, soft interior, and excellent flavour. Highly recommend giving it a try!

Have you been baking sourdough lately? Let me know in the comments what your favourite recipe or tip is!