Elbow Falls, Kananaskis Country

 

Powerful Waters and Stunning Scenery in Alberta’s Backyard

Here’s a fresh shot from Elbow Falls in Kananaskis Country, taken just over a month ago. The water was still running fast and high — that classic spring/early summer rush that makes the falls roar even louder than usual.

If you’re heading out for a day trip from Calgary or the surrounding area, Elbow Falls is one of those accessible gems that never disappoints. The viewpoint is easy to reach with a short walk, and on a good day you get this perfect mix of thundering water, rugged rock formations, and towering evergreen forest with mountain backdrops.

Why Visit on the First Wednesday?

Kananaskis Country is beautiful year-round, but the extra park pass fee can add up if you’re just popping in for a quick hike or viewpoint. Last I checked, the first Wednesday of each month means no vehicle access pass is required for many areas in Kananaskis — a great way to enjoy places like Elbow Falls without the added cost. Always double-check the current rules on the official Alberta Parks site before you go, as things can change.

Other upcoming free-access dates in 2026:

Parks Day: The third Saturday of July
Kananaskis Country's Birthday: September 22
Remembrance Day: November 11
First day of winter: December 21
Christmas Day: December 25 [1]

Be Wildlife Aware — Especially Bears!

Kananaskis is true wilderness right on Calgary’s doorstep, which is part of what makes it special. That also means sharing the space with wildlife. Bears have been particularly active in recent seasons, and encounters can happen.

Quick safety reminders:

• Make noise on trails (talk, clap, or use bear bells).
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
• Never approach or feed animals.
• Keep dogs leashed.
• Check trail conditions and recent wildlife reports before heading out.

Respecting the wild space keeps it safe and enjoyable for everyone (including the bears who just want to do their thing).

Elbow Falls in a Nutshell

Even with high water, the falls are dramatic and photogenic. The Elbow River crashes over rocky ledges here, carving through the landscape on its way from the mountains. It’s a fantastic short stop or the start of a longer hike in the area. In early summer the surrounding forest is lush green, wildflowers start popping, and the energy of the rushing water is contagious.

Kananaskis Country as a whole offers everything from easy viewpoints to serious backcountry adventures. I love how accessible it feels while still delivering that big-mountain, wild-river experience. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, soaking in the views, or just getting some fresh air, it’s hard to beat a day out here.

Have you been to Elbow Falls or other Kananaskis spots? What’s your favourite time of year to visit, or any tips for wildlife-smart hiking? Drop them in the comments — I always enjoy hearing from fellow nature lovers.

Stay safe, respect the outdoors, and get out there when you can. Alberta’s backyard never disappoints.

 

A Perfect Canada Day in Millarville Alberta

Yesterday I headed out to Millarville for one of those classic small-town Canada Day celebrations that never fail to warm the heart. The photo included here captures it perfectly — the wide-open sky with those big dramatic clouds, the green Alberta hills in the distance, and the simple joy of watching horses thunder around the track while the crowd cheers from the bleachers.

There’s something so soothing about days like this. Families gathered on the metal stands, kids running around, plenty of cowboy hats and red-and-white everywhere you look. Canadian flags fluttering along the fence line, the occasional red umbrella for shade, and that unmistakable small-town rodeo vibe that feels like stepping back to a simpler time.

The rider on the white horse cutting across the arena really made the moment for me. Graceful, focused, and right at home in the prairie landscape. It’s not flashy or over-the-top — just good, honest Canadian entertainment on the nation’s birthday.

These are the kinds of days that remind you why so many of us love living (or visiting) rural Alberta. Fresh air, friendly faces, and that wonderful sense of community that comes so naturally here. Millarville delivered exactly what I was hoping for: a relaxed, feel-good Canada Day filled with horses, sunshine between the clouds, and that special prairie magic.

If you ever get the chance, put Millarville’s Canada Day event on your list. It’s the real deal — pure, unpretentious, and deeply comforting.

Happy belated Canada Day, everyone!

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.

Beautiful Draft Horses at the Diamond Valley Parade

Beautiful Draft Horses at the Diamond Valley Parade Today at the Diamond Valley Parade in Alberta, I had the pure joy of watching these magnificent horses pass by. Just look at them — so strong, gentle, and absolutely stunning in their black-and-white coats as they pulled the wagon down the street. I’ve always loved horses — big and small, it doesn’t matter. There’s something about them that instantly brings a sense of wonder and peace to my heart. Whether it’s their powerful presence, their kind eyes, or the graceful way they move, being around horses never fails to lift my spirits and remind me how beautiful this world can be. These gentle giants in today’s parade were a perfect example. Watching them walk proudly with their flowing manes and feathered legs made me smile from ear to ear. There’s just nothing quite like the sight and sound of horses in a small-town parade — it feels timeless and heartwarming all at once. If you’re someone who also loves horses, I hope this photo brings you a little bit of that same joy and wonder today. They really are such special animals. Whether you get to see them in person, in a parade, or just in pictures, they have a wonderful way of touching the soul. Here’s to all the horse lovers out there — may you have many beautiful horse moments in your life!

Rocky Mountain Beauty – Kananaskis Country

Some people might scroll past a photo of “just a mountain,” but I never do.  This one stopped me in my tracks when I took it in Kananaskis Country. The jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies cut sharply against a moody sky, while the forest below glows with early fall colour — those bright yellow larches popping against the deep green evergreens. There’s something quietly powerful about it. No fancy summit, no dramatic sunrise, just raw Rocky Mountain beauty doing what it does best.

 

I love moments like this. Standing there with my camera, breathing in the crisp air, feeling tiny next to these ancient giants. Kananaskis always delivers that perfect mix of rugged wilderness and unexpected colour. One minute you’re surrounded by thick forest, the next you round a bend and the mountains open up like this.

 

Photography for me is about freezing those little reminders that the world is still wildly beautiful — even on an ordinary day in the foothills. No filters, no drama, just the Rockies being magnificent.

If you’re someone who also stops for mountains, sunsets, or a perfect stand of golden larches… this one’s for you.   Kananaskis Country, Alberta - Shot on location by me

What’s your favourite “just a mountain” moment? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear!  📸

Dragon Resin Collection | What I have been working on

Works in Progress Resin Dragons

Step into my creative world and you’ll find a colourful menagerie of dragons emerging from resin, each one hand-crafted with love, patience, and a touch of magic. This latest photo captures several pieces from my ongoing collection, all made using silicone molds, layered pigments, mica powders, and alcohol inks.

The star of the image is the large multi-colored dragon hatching egg. Its dramatic gradient shifts from deep ocean blues and teals at the base to fiery magentas, golds, and shimmering metallics at the top. Creating this piece required a careful, multi-stage pour that took considerable time and precision to avoid bubbles and achieve the flowing colour transitions. A detailed baby dragon is already visible, wings spread, eagerly breaking free from its glittering shell.

Beside it sits a charming purple-and-blue baby dragon figurine with bright yellow eyes and silver horns, looking curious and ready for adventure. Smaller dragon eggs in golden tones with silver dragons embossed on the surface, a pink floral geode-style piece, and various blue resin molds and cabochons complete the scene.

None of these pieces are finished yet. They still need final detailing—additional painting to bring out scales and textures, a protective resin top coat, varnish, or high-gloss finish to make the colours truly pop and the surfaces glass-like. The process is as rewarding as the final result, turning raw resin into miniature fantasy worlds.

These dragons represent hours of experimentation with colour blending, layering techniques, and problem-solving when pours don’t go exactly as planned. They’re destined for my website, Thoughtstoyou.com, where I share my handmade resin art, jewellery, and fantasy-inspired creations.

If you love dragons, fantasy, or the satisfying journey of watching art come to life, keep an eye on the site. More finished pieces will be appearing soon, each one unique and full of character.

What do you think—should I name the big hatching dragon? Suggestions welcome!  

 

New Resin Art Piece Venetian Mask

New Resin Art Piece: Venetian Mask on a Swirling Epoxy Background

I just finished creating this colourful Venetian-style mask plaque, and I’m really excited to share it with you!

The centerpiece is a detailed ResinCrete mask in shimmering shades of blue, gold, and silver. I love working with ResinCrete — it’s much less odorous than traditional epoxy, making the whole process more enjoyable. The mask has beautiful ornate details with metallic finishes that catch the light beautifully.

Behind it sits a vibrant epoxy resin plaque with a flowing, marbled design in rich purples, magentas, deep blues, and bright turquoises. The scalloped edges give it an elegant, organic feel, and the glossy finish really makes the colours pop.

Right now the mask and background are separate pieces, but I’m planning to mount the ResinCrete mask onto the epoxy plaque to create one cohesive wall art piece. I think the combination will look stunning once they’re joined! I always enjoy the creative process with these materials. While some epoxies can have a stronger smell, there are lower-odor options available, and ResinCrete continues to be my favourite go-to for pieces like this.

What do you think of this Venetian mask design? Would you display something like this in your home? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! 

You Stood Tall in Kananaskis Country | I Thought of You

I rounded the bend on the trail and there you were — tall, quiet, impossibly beautiful against the grey stone face of the mountains. Two slender evergreens rising straight and true, their dark green arms reaching toward a soft, overcast sky. Kananaskis Country was holding its breath that day, and so was I.

There you stood. 
To me, oh so beautiful. You are only a tree, the world might say. Just needles and bark and roots gripping the rocky soil. But I saw more. I saw a life. You live. You breathe. You pull the mountain air deep into yourself and give it back softer, cleaner. Season after season you stand here — through wind, through snow, through long summer suns — never shrinking, never apologizing for taking up your rightful space.

And something about your steady presence pulled my thoughts back down the trail to us humans.

Some of us stand apart too. 
Not because no one wants us near, but because so few can truly see us for all that we are. We grow in our own rhythm. We keep our shape even when the world seems to prefer something shorter, softer, more convenient. We don’t give up. We don’t become less than who we actually are just to fit a smaller story someone else wrote about us.

All things have a cycle. Life is life, in a thousand different versions. Some forms look simpler from the outside — a tree, a quiet soul, a steady heart that doesn’t shout for attention. But to that one life, nothing is simple. The quiet work of growing tall, of breathing through every storm, of staying rooted while the mountains themselves seem to shift — that is its own vast, beautiful complexity.

So if you ever feel unseen or set apart, remember this image from Kananaskis. 
See the trees standing there, unashamed and alive. Let them remind you that your life is no less miraculous for being misunderstood. You are not “just” anything. You are a whole world of roots and reaching and quiet resilience.

I stopped on the trail that day and took this picture thinking of you. 
I hope when you see it, you feel how completely you are seen — and how deeply you are loved, exactly as you are.

With a full heart, 
Magdelene

Adult Colouring Books My Obsession

Adult Coloring Books: My Obsession, Pro Tips & the Truth About Selling Your Creations

Looking at these two pages — the fierce, fiery dragon with glowing eyes and swirling scales, and the stunning sugar skull woman with flowing rainbow hair, roses, and intricate details — it’s easy to see why adult colouring books have become wildly popular lately. They’re relaxing, creative, and incredibly satisfying.

I’ve always loved colouring, and it remains one of my favourite ways to unwind. The only problem? I also do resin art, crafting, painting, and a dozen other creative things. There simply aren’t enough hours in a day! If I were like Grok and didn’t need sleep, imagine how much more I could create.

What draws me in most is the joy of the process. You start with a blank line drawing and slowly bring it to life with colour choices, blending, and shading. It doesn’t matter if it turns out “perfect” — as long as you’re enjoying it, you’re doing it right. Colouring is gentle exercise for the mind, a stress reliever, and a wonderful creative escape.

My Top Tips & How-Tos:

Use quality supplies: alcohol markers or gel pens for bold, vibrant results; coloured pencils for soft layering and blending. 
Work on thick, single-sided paper to avoid bleed-through. 
Start with light pressure and build colour gradually. 
Experiment with techniques like stippling, hatching, or ombre shading. 
Good lighting and a comfortable spot make all the difference. 
 
A quick note on selling: Thanks to the first-sale doctrine, or in Canada "doctrine of exhaustion", you can usually sell the physical coloured page you created from a book you bought. However, you cannot scan, print, or reproduce copies for sale because the original line art is copyrighted. Always enjoy them first for the fun of it!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned colourist, grab a book, pick up some markers, and let yourself play. The most important rule? Have fun. That’s what art is all about.

 

The Ephemeral Art of Ice Sculpting

Ice sculpting, a captivating blend of skill and transience, transforms frozen water into stunning masterpieces that melt away with time. Captured in photos from events like Light Up Okotoks 2024, where live carvings drew crowds amid twinkling lights and snowy streets, this art form dazzles with its glowing, intricate designs—such as the blue-lit fish and abstract forms seen in your image, with the sculptor kneeling amid tools and tents.

Rooted in ancient history, ice harvesting dates back to 600 B.C. in China, where blocks were cut for preservation. By the 1600s, Chinese fishermen crafted ice lanterns, evolving into elaborate festivals like Harbin's International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. In 1740, Russia's Empress Anna Ivanovna commissioned a whimsical ice palace for a wedding prank, showcasing early ornate works. The 19th century saw mechanical refrigeration boost the craft, with culinary pioneers like Auguste Escoffier using ice swans for presentations in 1892. History of Ice Carving

Modern techniques begin with crystal-clear ice blocks, often manufactured using ammonia or brine for clarity. Sculptors sketch designs, then wield chainsaws for rough shaping, followed by chisels, die grinders, and even CNC machines for precision. Power tools, popularized in the 1980s by innovators like Mark Daukas, speed the process. A simple piece might take 10 minutes, but detailed sculptures often require a day or more, demanding patience amid melting risks—broken parts can be "welded" back with water.

Like a fascination with mainstream art, ice sculpting rewards persistence, turning fleeting ice into timeless inspiration. Events like Okotoks' live demos highlight its communal joy, proving art's beauty lies in the process as much as the product.

icesculptingtools.com 

 

How to Patiently Wait for Winter to GTFO

How to Patiently Wait for Winter to GTFO (Without Losing Your Mind)

Confession: I'm the queen of seasonal whining. Right now it's "Ugh, more snow? Make it stop!" Come July it'll be "This heat is unbearable—why did I ever complain about cold?" Send help (and maybe a time machine). The cycle is real, but while winter drags its icy feet, here's how to wait it out without turning into a full-time grump.

Embrace the "Winter Rest" Like Nature Does 
Trees aren't out here panicking about bare branches—they're chilling, conserving energy, dreaming of spring leaves. Animals hibernate or hunker down. Why fight the natural pause? Give yourself permission to slow down. Read that book you've ignored, binge a cozy series, or just stare out the window at the snow like it's performance art. Winter's not stalling; it's recharging. 

Lean in. Turn Waiting into Mini Rituals Make the wait delicious. Brew hot cocoa (extra marshmallows, no judgment), curl up with seed catalogues or garden planning apps, and dream big about your spring outdoor adventures. Sketch flower beds, research native plants, or make a "summer bucket list" that includes zero snow. It's forward momentum without the frostbite. dreamstime.com  

Get Outside Anyway—Mindful Walks in the Cold 
Bundle up and go. The crunch of snow underfoot, the quiet hush of a frozen world, those frost sparkles catching sunlight like nature's temporary diamonds... it's antidepressant-level good. Notice the details: bird tracks, icicle drips, the way light plays on ice. It's shiny in its own frozen way—nature's bling before the green explosion.

Humor Hacks to Keep the Sanity 
Laugh at the absurdity. Watch comedy specials, doom-scroll seasonal memes ("Winter: because summer wasn't hot enough torture"), or build a snowman and call it "therapy." Name it something ridiculous like "Sir Melts-a-Lot." Bonus points if you give him a tiny hat.  

Track Tiny Wins, Celebrate the small shifts: First longer daylight, a robin sighting, melting patches revealing hopeful green underneath. Jot them in a note or photo them. It's proof the season is shifting—even if it feels glacial.

Those patchy melts—spring whispering "I'm coming... eventually." And when summer finally hits? You'll be right back to whining about the heat... but at least the snow will be melted by then, and your garden dreams will be in full swing. Hang in there—the sparkle in the ice today becomes the green glow tomorrow.

What's your go-to winter survival ritual? Drop it in the comments—I need more ideas while I wait for this snow to GTFO! 

Slow Down and Savor the Beauty

Slow Down and Savor: The Untouched Beauty Outside Cody, Wyoming

In a world racing at breakneck speed, sometimes the most profound moments come from simply stopping to gaze. These two captivating photos, captured just outside Cody, Wyoming, embody that quiet invitation. The first reveals a winding gravel road slicing through lush green prairies, leading toward a distant town nestled under snow-capped mountains and dramatic, cloud-filled skies—a scene that whispers of endless adventure and serenity. The second offers a closer view of rolling hills dotted with sagebrush and wildflowers, bathed in the moody light of an approaching storm, where rays of sun pierce through like nature's own spotlight.

These images aren't just pretty; they're a reminder of the raw, utter beauty that unfolds before us daily, yet so many rush past without a second glance. Wyoming's vast landscapes, with their expansive grasslands and rugged peaks, demand we pause. As the user aptly notes, it's utterly beautiful— a vista that can reset the soul if we let it.Science backs this up: Studies show that immersing in nature reduces stress and boosts mental well-being.  

Even 10-20 minutes in green spaces can prevent mental strain, improving mood and cognitive function.  
health.state.mn.us 
 

Walking in natural settings decreases rumination—those repetitive negative thoughts—and lowers depression risk, as found in research from Stanford.  
news.stanford.edu 
 

By slowing down, removing ourselves from daily stresses for just minutes or hours, we foster positive emotions, reduce anxiety, and enhance focus.So, next time life's pace hits 200 mph, pull over. Step into a place like Cody's outskirts, breathe in the fresh air, and truly see. Your mind—and heart—will thank you. 

Embracing the Sunrise: Beauty in Every New Dawn

There's something profoundly magical about a sunrise. As the first light breaks the horizon, the sky ignites in fiery oranges, reds, and golds—streaks of cloud painted like brushstrokes across the heavens. In this early morning capture on the road to leaving High River Alberta, a lone truck silhouettes against the blazing sky, the Highway 2 North sign standing sentinel. What started as a quest for a hot air balloon liftoff turned into this breathtaking gift from nature, wind grounding the balloons but lifting the spirit instead.

Sunrises remind us that every day begins with promise. Plans may shift—wind cancels flights, rain derails outings—but there's always a silver lining if we pause to notice. That "failed" early rise became a moment of pure awe: vibrant colours washing over the prairie, the quiet road stretching toward new horizons. It's a gentle nudge to make the most of each day, no matter what unfolds.

Embrace the unexpected beauty around you. Let the sunrise set the tone—fill your hours with gratitude, creativity, and openness. Even when the original desire doesn't pan out, the day still holds wonders worth chasing. Start fresh, eyes wide open, and watch how ordinary mornings transform into something extraordinary.

Forty Mile Park | Peaceful Moments

 

Escape to 40 Mile Park: A Peaceful Gem by the Reservoir

Nestled in southern Alberta (County of Forty Mile), just a short drive from nearby communities like Foremost, 40 Mile Park is one of those underrated campgrounds that feels like a true getaway. Built around the 11 km (about 7-mile) 40 Mile Reservoir—an artificial lake created for irrigation storage—the park offers a big, beautiful body of water perfect for boating, fishing, swimming in the designated area, or just soaking in the views.

 

What makes it awesome? Depending on when you go, it can be incredibly peaceful—quiet evenings where the only sounds are lapping water, birds, and maybe a distant boat. Off-peak times deliver that serene escape where you can truly unwind. The park has plenty of amenities: around 90 seasonal and 90 overnight sites (many with power and sewer hookups), a group camping area, sandy beach access, playgrounds, volleyball, basketball, picnic spots, and even a little on-site store for essentials.  

 

The sunsets are something special, as this photo captures—fiery orange skies streaking over the trees and campground, turning the whole place golden. It's family-oriented but easy to find your own quiet corner.If you're looking for a relaxing spot not too far from home, with water, nature, and that perfect mix of activity and calm, 40 Mile Park delivers. Highly recommend booking ahead in summer, but shoulder seasons? Pure bliss. 

 

The Majestic Wonder of Kananaskis Country Alberta

Echoes of the Rockies in Every Outdoor Lover's Mind

Gazing upon a rugged mountain peak in Kananaskis Country, part of Alberta's stunning Canadian Rockies, it's easy to get lost in a wave of awe. This vast protected area spans over 4,000 square kilometres of foothills, alpine meadows, and towering summits reaching up to 2,936 meters.  
 explorecanmore.ca 

The rocky slopes, etched by time and elements, rise sharply against a crisp blue sky, inviting whispers of ancient stories from glaciers and winds. For those who truly love the outdoors, such a sight isn't just a backdrop—it's a portal to introspection and exhilaration.Imagine standing at the foot of this mountain, the cool mountain air brushing your skin, carrying the earthy scent of pine and wildflowers. You feel the ground solid beneath you, a gentle hum of nature's pulse. No need to conquer the summit; the wonder lies in the accessible embrace. Easier hikes beckon—trails like Grassi Lakes or Troll Falls, where crystal-clear waters cascade over rocks, and paths wind through vibrant meadows without demanding extreme exertion. 

These routes, from family-friendly loops to moderate day treks, offer a perfect blend of serenity and discovery, far from the crowds of nearby Banff.  nationalgeographic.com 

In the minds of outdoor enthusiasts, these mountains stir profound thoughts. There's the humbling scale, how insignificant yet alive one feels amid peaks forged over millennia. A sense of peace washes over, dissolving daily stresses in the rhythm of footsteps on soft earth. Connections deepen: to the land, to wildlife glimpsed in the distance (perhaps a bighorn sheep or elk), and to oneself. It's about rejuvenation, the thrill of a hidden lake reveal, the quiet reflection during a trail-side pause, or the simple joy of breathing in unspoiled air. For many, it's a reminder of life's adventures don't always require summits; sometimes, the base or a gentle ascent is where the magic unfolds.

Kananaskis, with its over 150 official trails ranging from interpretive walks to alpine passes,  
explorecanmore.ca embodies this timeless allure. Whether you're dreaming of emerald waters at Rawson Lake or panoramic views from Ptarmigan Cirque, hikebiketravel.com the Rockies here ignite a passion that's as enduring as the stone itself. 

What thoughts stir in you when faced with such grandeur? The mountains wait, ready to share their secrets with every wanderer.