Sheep River Running High in Okotoks

Sheep River Running High in Okotoks – June 29, 2026

This morning on my walk along the Sheep River in Okotoks, the water was noticeably high and moving fast. It looked like it was getting close to the top of the bank in places, with lots of branches, logs, and other debris being carried downstream. The river had that classic chocolate-milk colour from all the runoff, and it definitely felt powerful. A High Streamflow Advisory remains in effect for the Sheep River (including Threepoint Creek) as of this morning. The Town of Okotoks has activated Stage 1 of its Emergency Management Plan in response. According to the latest update from the Town, river flows are expected to increase further today, with peak conditions forecast for late this afternoon (Monday, June 29). Preliminary forecasts from the River Forecast Centre have been revised upward to roughly 400–500 cubic metres per second at peak. Good news: There is currently no Flood Watch or Flood Warning in effect for Okotoks. Officials are saying there is no immediate threat to public safety, though minor flooding in low-lying areas and water pooling on roads remains possible. They’re keeping a close eye on vulnerable spots like campgrounds, Laudan Park, and Lineham Estates. The heavy rain we’ve had over the past while (including another strong downpour this afternoon) is the main driver. These high flows often pick up a lot of woody debris from upstream, which is exactly what I saw this morning. Safety reminders from the Town:

• Stay well back from the riverbanks — they can become unstable.
• Keep children and pets away from the water.
• Avoid any water activities (no tubing, kayaking, or swimming right now).
• Watch for pooling water on roads and don’t drive through flooded areas.

Free sandbags are available at the Okotoks Operations Centre (1118 N Railway St.) if you need them for your property.Conditions are expected to improve overnight as the rain tapers off, and levels should start to recede after today’s peak.I’ll be keeping an eye on it and hope it stays within the banks. Nature is beautiful, but these high-water days remind us to respect it.Stay safe out there, Okotoks! Useful links to check for updates:

• Town of Okotoks: okotoks.ca
• Alberta Rivers: rivers.alberta.ca

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.

My Three Wise Dragons Are Almost Complete!

See No Evil • Speak No Evil • Hear No Evil

Hello fellow makers!  If you’ve been following along, you know I’ve been quietly working on a brand-new resin sculpture series: the Three Wise Dragons. These little guys are my playful twist on the classic “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” proverb—except they’re adorable, spiky, and full of personality.

In the photo above you can meet the first two members of the trio: The fiery red-pink dragon is cast in ResinCrete. He’s solid, matte, and has that lovely stone-like weight. He’s my “See No Evil” dragon—paws pressed sweetly over his eyes, looking both mischievous and wise at the same time.   
The vibrant blue dragon is made with clear epoxy resin. He came out beautifully glossy with a deep, jewel-like shine. His expression is more curious and watchful—perfect for the “Speak No Evil” role. 
 
And the best part? The third dragon—Hear No Evil—is still tucked away in his mold right now. He’s being cast in a light, transparent green epoxy that I’m really excited about. Once he’s demolded (hopefully later today!), the whole trio will be together for the first time.

Next steps for all three:  Light sanding   
A few coats of sealer   
Hand-painted details (tiny gold accents on the horns and eyes are already planned)   
Maybe a soft gloss on the eyes to make them pop 
 
I’ll be sharing the full reveal + a step-by-step “how I cast them” post once the green one is out and they’re all finished. These little dragons have been so much fun to make—each one feels like it has its own tiny soul.

Would you love to see a full tutorial on how I make these (mold making, resin choice, demolding tricks, etc.)? Let me know in the comments!  

Happy Creating!

Finding Peace in Nature's Quiet Canvas Okotoks Alberta

Where do you find beauty? Finding Peace in Nature's Quiet Canvas: A Moment by the Water in Okotoks

A year or so ago, I wandered through the peaceful trails near Okotoks, Alberta, and came upon this serene little spot that still stops me in my tracks whenever I look back at the photo. The image captures a calm pond or slow-moving creek edged with tall, golden reeds and cattails, framed by bare autumn trees under a brilliant blue sky. Sunlight dances on the clear water, highlighting clusters of yellowing willow leaves dipping toward their reflection, while the surrounding grasses glow in warm shades of ochre and rust. It's one of those scenes that feels untouched—pure, unhurried, and utterly beautiful.

In that moment, everything slowed down. No rush, no agenda—just the soft rustle of wind through the dry reeds, the gentle lap of water, and the play of light filtering through the branches. Okotoks, with its proximity to the Sheep River Valley and pockets of wetlands and ponds scattered along local paths, offers these hidden gems year-round, but autumn brings an extra magic. The colours shift from vibrant greens to rich golds and ambers, reminding us how nature transitions so gracefully.

Sometimes, the best part of a day isn't about doing—it's about simply being. Getting out there, breathing deeply, and letting the natural world remind us of its quiet power. In a busy life, these pauses recharge the soul. Whether it's a quick walk along a community trail like those around the Sheep River or a storm pond loop in town, moments like this are free and available to anyone willing to step outside.

I hope this photo inspires you to seek out your own quiet corner of beauty. Nature created these wonders without fanfare—let's take the time to appreciate them.

What spots bring you that same sense of peace? Share in the comments, I'd love to hear!

A Quiet Crescent Moon in the Winter Sky

 A Quiet Crescent in the Winter Sky

In the pre-dawn stillness of Okotoks, Alberta, around 7 a.m. on a crisp January morning, the world holds its breath before the sun rises. The sky is a deep, velvety blue, the kind that feels infinite, and against it hangs a delicate waning crescent moon—thin, silver, and luminous, like a gentle smile suspended among the clouds.The photograph captures this fleeting moment perfectly: the moon glows softly through wispy streaks of cloud, its illuminated sliver bright enough to command attention, yet subtle enough to feel intimate. Tall evergreens stand sentinel below, their dark silhouettes reaching upward as if trying to touch the sky. The scene is serene, almost meditative—a reminder that even in the depth of winter, when days are short and the cold bites, beauty persists in the quiet places.This waning crescent, about 23% illuminated and nearing the end of its lunar cycle, carries a special kind of poetry. It symbolizes release, reflection, and the gentle winding down before renewal. In the early morning hush, before the town awakens and the sun claims the horizon, the moon offers a private audience to anyone willing to look up.Moments like this are easy to miss amid the rush of daily life. We hurry through our routines, eyes on screens or the road ahead, forgetting to pause for the simple wonders overhead. Yet here, in a single frame taken in your own backyard, is proof that the world is still full of quiet magic. A sliver of moon, framed by winter trees and dawn's first blush, whispering: Look. Remember. The beauty is always there, even when we forget to see it.It's a lovely little nudge to lift our gaze more often—because sometimes the most profound reminders come wrapped in the softest light.

Magical Hoar Frost Transforms Okotoks Tree

Magical Hoar Frost Transforms Okotoks Tree into Winter Wonderland ❄️

While grabbing groceries at Save On Foods in Okotoks today, I couldn't resist snapping this breathtaking photo of the evergreen tree out front – completely encased in thick, fluffy white crystals!

This isn't just ordinary snow accumulation; it's classic **hoar frost** (also called hoarfrost), a stunning phenomenon common in Alberta's chilly winters. Hoar frost forms on cold, clear nights when water vapor in the air deposits directly as delicate ice crystals on branches, creating that feathery, "old beard" look.

The buildup here is impressive – almost like the tree's been flocked for Christmas! Perfect reminder of Southern Alberta's magical winter beauty.

Have you spotted hoar frost around Okotoks lately?  More local winter wonders at OkotoksOnline or your favourite community site!

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