How to Visit the Brooks Aqueduct & Kinbrook Island Provincial Park

The Brooks Aqueduct (the “River in the Sky”) and nearby Kinbrook Island Provincial Park on Lake Newell make an easy day trip or overnight stay about 2–2.5 hours east of Calgary. Here’s the practical side of getting there and making the most of it.

How to Get There
- Kinbrook Island Provincial Park: 13 km south of Brooks on Highway 873. From the Trans-Canada Highway, turn south onto Hwy 873 and follow the signs.
- Brooks Aqueduct National Historic Site: About 8 km southeast of Brooks, off the Trans-Canada at the Tillebrook Provincial Park turnoff. Free admission, open for self-guided visits year-round (day-use only, no camping). Parking is limited for large RVs.
Campground Size & Booking
Kinbrook has roughly 200 campsites (mostly 15/30-amp powered sites, plus unserviced and a few walk-in tenting sites, along with group areas). 

Book online at https://shop.albertaparks.ca or call 1-877-537-2757. Sites can be reserved up to 90 days in advance. Advance booking is strongly recommended in summer — weekends fill quickly. Some first-come options may be available in shoulder seasons. The campground booth is generally staffed mid-May through late September.

Best Time to Visit / Busiest vs. Least Busy
- Best overall: Late May through September.
- Warmest water & swimming: July and August.
- Birding & quieter trails: May–June and September.
- Busiest: July–August weekends and long weekends. Book early if you want those dates.
- Least busy: Weekdays, early June, and after Labour Day in September. Winter is very quiet (limited services, some loops closed) if you’re after ice fishing, skiing, or just solitude.

What’s There to Do
- Beach swimming (Lake Newell is one of southern Alberta’s warmer man-made lakes)
- Boating, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing (all watercraft need to follow the Eastern Irrigation District’s Aquatic Invasive Species program)
- Fishing
- Excellent birdwatching (270+ species) and the interpretive Marsh Trail
- Playground, volleyball, and day-use areas
- Short drive to the Brooks Aqueduct for walking and photos

Facilities & Practical Notes
Expect flush toilets, showers (check current advisories — the shower building has had construction closures), a dump station, firewood sales in season, and drinking water in summer. A seasonal fast-food concession operates mainly at the height of summer; there is no full grocery store on site. Brooks (about 15 minutes away) has grocery stores and other services.

Water and some services shut off in early October. Quiet hours run 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. Pets are allowed on leash.

This is Part 1 of a three-part series. Watch the full video of the aqueduct and the park here:  
River in the Sky & Kinbrook Island Park

Always double-check Alberta Parks for the latest advisories, rates, and booking windows before you go.

Alaska Views: The View That Asks Nothing of You

A couple of years ago I stood on a hillside in Alaska and took this picture. Mountains rising in the distance with late snow still clinging to the peaks, a wide river braiding its way through the valley, forests turning gold and green below, and a bright sky full of big, slow clouds. In the moment I wasn’t thinking about what came next or what I had left unfinished. I was just looking.

That is the strange gift of a view like this. It does not require commentary. It does not ask you to improve it or to extract a lesson on the spot. It simply is, and for a few breaths you can be with it. The wind moves through the trees in the foreground. The light shifts across the slopes. Somewhere far below, the river keeps moving whether or not anyone is watching. All of the ordinary noise—deadlines, opinions, the next thing that needs doing—has nowhere to land for a little while.

KassDays has always been about that kind of travel: not just the places themselves, but the way a place can clear the head if you let it. You walk, you stop, you look. The camera comes out, but the looking comes first. Sometimes the video that results is about the trail or the road or the unexpected turn. Sometimes, though, the real footage is the pause itself—the stretch of quiet where the mind resets because the landscape is larger than whatever you carried up the hill with you.

Stress has a way of shrinking the world until everything feels immediate and personal. A wide valley does the opposite. It reminds you that most of what occupies the mind is temporary, while the mountains and the river have been arranging themselves for a very long time. You do not have to solve anything while you stand there. You can simply notice the colours in the trees, the way the clouds rest against the ridges, the small bright plants at your feet. A deep breath is enough.

Then the moment passes, as moments do. You put the camera away, start walking again, and the ordinary concerns return in their own time. But something has shifted, even slightly. The view stays with you. It becomes a place you can return to in memory when the day feels crowded—proof that the world is still larger than the next task, and that beauty is still available if you are willing to stop and see it.

That is all this photograph is: one quiet minute on a hillside in Alaska, offered here in the hope that it gives you a minute of your own. Look at it. Let the rest wait. Breathe. The river will still be moving when you come back.

How to Shop the Okotoks Christmas Market

The Okotoks Christmas Market is a good place to knock out holiday shopping with local makers. Here’s a simple way to approach it. 

Know the basics first
It runs two weekends at two locations (Viking Rentals Events Centre at 204 Community Way and D’Arcy Ranch Golf Club at 376 D’Arcy Ranch Drive). Both spots are open both weekends.  
- Weekend 1: Nov 7 (4–8 PM) & Nov 8 (9–4)  
- Weekend 2: Nov 14 (4–8 PM), Nov 15 & 16 (9–4)  

Tickets are $5 for one weekend or $8 for both. Kids 12 and under are free. Get them at Market Square or at the door. Vendors change each weekend, so the selection is different the second time around.

What to look for
Focus on handmade items you won’t find in big stores: jewellery, candles, woodwork, soaps, pottery, baked goods, kids’ clothes, and décor. Check the quality of the materials and finish. Ask the maker how something is made or cared for — most are happy to talk. Look for pieces that match what you actually need rather than grabbing the first shiny thing.

Can you bargain? 
Usually no. These are fixed-price artisan markets, not flea markets. Prices are set by the makers and generally stay that way. Being polite and chatting is fine, but don’t expect to haggle the price down. If something is out of budget, just move on.

Simple shopping tips  
- Go with a short list so you don’t wander aimlessly.  
- Bring cash as a backup even though most take cards.  
- Hit both locations if you can — they have different vendors.  
- The second weekend often has a fresh lineup, so it’s worth going again if you missed something the first time.

The full walk-through video of this year’s market is here:  
Okotoks Holiday Market 2025

It shows the setup, the kinds of stalls, and the overall vibe so you know what to expect before you go.

Video by KassDays

See the Beauty, Carry It With You

This is one of those still mornings when the water is glass. The clouds sit low and heavy, the spruce line is sharp against the far shore, and the mountains fade into soft grey behind it all. Everything doubles in the lake. The reflection is almost perfect, as if the day has decided to hold still for a minute and show you what is already there.

You do not need a perfect blue sky for it to matter. The beauty is in the quiet surface, the way the trees stand straight in the water, the soft light that does not demand anything from you. It is easy to walk past these places or only notice them when the weather is ideal. It is just as easy to stop, breathe once or twice, and let the view settle.

Take the calm with you. Not the whole mountain range, just the feeling of the still water and the open sky. When the rest of the day gets busy or ordinary, that small piece is still there. You saw it. You can recall it. It does not fix everything, but it reminds you that beauty shows up in ordinary light too, and that noticing it is already a better start than missing it.

Helen  
Helen’s How To

 

Blue Resin Skull — Making Time to Make Something

There’s a blue epoxy resin skull sitting on my work surface right now. The colour is mine, mixed and poured. The eye sockets hold a metallic copper tone that catches the light differently every time I move it. It’s not finished. The surface still needs work, the photo doesn’t quite capture it the way I want, and I’m not sure when I’ll get back to the last steps. That’s fine.

I made it because I wanted to. Not for a market, not for a deadline, and not because anyone asked for a resin skull. Just because the idea was there and I had a stretch of time that wasn’t already claimed by something else. That small choice is what this piece is really about.

The practical side

Epoxy resin rewards patience more than speed. For a cast like this:

- Work in thin layers if you’re building color or inclusions. Thick pours trap heat and can yellow or crack.
- Colour thoroughly before you pour. Transparent dyes and mica powders behave differently; test a small batch so you know how the shade will look once it cures.
- Keep the workspace dust-free for at least the first few hours. Once the resin starts to gel, anything that lands on the surface stays there.
- Demold only when it’s fully hard. Flexing a soft cast is the fastest way to leave fingerprints or distort the shape.
- Finish work (sanding, polishing, additional pigment) can happen later. The skull doesn’t need to be perfect the day it comes out of the mold.

None of that is complicated, but it does require showing up when the resin is ready rather than when the calendar is convenient. The same is true of most handmade things.

Why the unfinished version still counts

A lot of creative work gets abandoned because it doesn’t look like the version in our heads. The blue skull is a good reminder that the value isn’t only in the polished final object. Part of the value is in the decision to mix the resin, pour it, and let it cure while the rest of life continues. That decision says the time belonged to me for a while.

Most days are full. Work, family, errands, and the general maintenance of living leave little leftover. The leftover is usually small — an hour after dinner, a quiet morning, a stretch when no one needs anything. Those fragments are easy to spend on scrolling or nothing in particular. They’re also the only time most of us will ever have for making something that exists only because we chose it.

The skull doesn’t solve anything large. It won’t organize a week or finish a project that actually needs finishing. It does prove that a person can still decide, on an ordinary day, to turn a material into a shape that didn’t exist before. That choice is small and it is also complete.

If you have a half-finished piece sitting somewhere — resin, wood, fabric, clay, or something else — it doesn’t have to be perfect to have already done its job. The job was to claim a bit of time and use it for yourself. The rest can wait until you have another small stretch.

That’s the part worth keeping.

Wild Horses Near Forgetmenot Pond, Kananaskis Country

Last Wednesday I was out in the Forgetmenot Pond area of Kananaskis Country when I came across a small band of wild horses. They were grazing on the open slope above the gravel bar, with the forest and the big peaks of the range behind them.

The light was clear and the horses were relaxed—one dark one standing higher on the ridge, a couple of browns lower down working the grass. It was one of those quiet Alberta fall scenes: dry grass, a few yellowing shrubs, spruce in the background, and the mountains sitting clean against the sky. I had a few frames, but this one captured the layout best.

People sometimes assume a shot like this has been cleaned up or generated, but this is straight from the camera. The horses were there, the mountains were there, and the light happened to cooperate. I stayed back, watched for a few minutes, and moved on so they could keep grazing.

If you’re heading into that part of Kananaskis, keep an eye on the open slopes and meadows near the water. The horses use the area and are often more visible in the shoulder seasons when the grass is still decent and the trails are quieter.

Safe travels if you’re out that way.

Helen

How to Scavenge Deals at a Multi-Vendor Antique Store

How to Scavenge Deals at a Multi-Vendor Antique Store (All Through the House, Okotoks)

The above video will not go live until October 28th, 2026, I pegged the wrong video, my apologies. 

All Through the House in Okotoks is a classic multi-vendor and consignment setup: a warehouse with over fifty vendors plus additional consignees. That model is great for variety, but it changes how shopping and bargaining work compared to a single-owner shop.

Can you find deals?

Yes. Because so many different people are selling (vendors, consignors, and the house itself), inventory turns over and pricing is uneven. One booth might have a realistic price on uranium glass or a jukebox; another might be higher. The yard and salvage areas often hold better value on larger or rougher pieces. Walk every aisle and the outdoor area—the denser the store, the more likely something is underpriced or overlooked.

How pricing and bargaining usually work 

Individual vendors set their own prices. Staff or the manager can often answer questions, but they may not have authority to discount someone else’s item.  

Practical approach:  

- Ask politely if the price is firm, especially on larger items, multiples, or pieces that have been sitting.  

- Bundling (buying more than one thing from the same vendor) improves your chances.  

- Unique or highly desirable pieces (rare advertising, working jukeboxes, clean uranium glass) are less flexible.  

- Don’t be aggressive. Many consignors are private individuals who have set a number they want.

Quick tips for scavenging here

- Give yourself time. The aisles are packed.  

- Check tags carefully—some items are pure consignment, others belong to resident vendors.  

- Look in the yard and hardware/salvage areas as well as the main floor.  

- If you’re serious about something, ask whether the vendor is on-site that day.

The full walkthrough that shows the density and the range of finds is here: https://youtu.be/5M4A_xTzjVY  

Location: Bldg 185, 100 Stockton Avenue (behind the Okotoks Cinemas; enter off North Railway Street). Generally open 11–5 daily.

Take your time, be respectful, and you’ll usually walk out with something.

This cute little Chameleon is also for sale, $25 OBO, he is approximately 15cm long and 4 to 5 cm high; if interested drop us a line or two. We are located in Okotoks Alberta and can meet up at a local public place. 

This Resin Art piece is make with Epoxy Resin and most of the colour comes from Mica Powder, there is some dye in the resin as well, that is where you can see some pink highlights in the tail and limbs. One of a kind unique piece. 

More than Just a Jump with a Motorcycle

More Than a Jump

At first glance, the photo is simply thrilling: a rider soars high above a dirt track, motorcycle angled perfectly against the open sky. Behind him rises the familiar skyline of Calgary, the Canadian flag fluttering nearby. It is a striking image of skill and motion.

But look longer, and the picture begins to open the mind.

What we see is the result of years that the camera cannot capture. Countless early mornings on the track. Repeated falls into hard-packed dirt. Bruises, sprains, the sharp sting of failure, the quiet decision to get back on the bike anyway. Mastery is never sudden. It is built one careful practice run, one recovered injury, one stubborn return at a time.

The rider in the air has already paid that price. The jump looks effortless only because the effort came earlier—out of sight, away from the lens. The city in the background reminds us that ordinary life continues while extraordinary focus is happening just a few kilometres away.

Photographs often hold more than we notice at first. They freeze a single second of triumph, yet they quietly point to the long, unseen road that made that second possible. The next time a picture stops you, pause. Wonder about the practice, the tumbles, the quiet courage that brought the subject to that exact moment.

Sometimes the real story is not what is shown, but everything that had to happen before the shutter clicked.

Create Art as Your Heart Decides

This little skull was never meant to follow a trend.

I poured it in eco resin, chose every colour myself, painted the bone tones and soft pinks by hand, and gave him a pair of golden cat-like eyes that stare right back at you. Not to make him spooky or macabre. Just to give him life. I want my creatures to be able to see. I want them to have character. I want them to feel like they could sit on a shelf and quietly watch the world go by with a bit of personality of their own.

He isn’t perfect. He isn’t trying to be. He is simply what happened when I stopped asking what “they” are making this week and started listening to what I actually wanted to make.

Sometimes the loudest advice floating around is to copy whatever is currently popular, to match the colour palette the algorithm is rewarding, to produce the same shape the crowd is already sharing. I understand the temptation. But I keep coming back to a quieter truth: create as your heart decides. Not because someone said it was trending. Not because the mob has already decided what “good” looks like this month. Create from you, for the betterment of you.

When the work comes from that place, something shifts. You stop measuring yourself against strangers online and start measuring the piece against your own satisfaction. Does it make you smile when you look at it? Does it feel like it belongs to the person you actually are? If the answer is yes, then it has already succeeded—long before anyone else ever sees it.

This skull is one of those pieces for me. I like him. The soft peach of the bone, the white of the teeth and the brain-like ridges, the unexpected brightness of those feline eyes. He sits there looking slightly amused, slightly curious, completely himself. And that is enough.

So if you are standing in front of your own materials right now, wondering whether your idea is “on trend” or “too different,” I offer the same quiet permission I give myself:

Don’t be one of the crowd.
Allow yourself to be unique unto yourself.

Make the thing that only you would make. Give it eyes if it needs eyes. Choose the colours that feel right in your hands. Let it come to life in whatever way your heart decides.

The rest will take care of itself. Below you will see my other little friend, I nearly typed fiend, but look at him, he looks kind of happy, doesn't look mean, not really a fiend.  The fellow at the top of this page, I would be more worried about him, if we are going supernatural. 😁 🖖

 

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.