Petunias and How I Accomplished This Abundance

Petunias they say, easy to grow, and I would have to agree with them.  This is a picture of one of these Petunia plants I grew at least a couple of years back. Now if I go with the same logic I used this year, I bought a flat full of certain colours of Petunias, just tiny individual plants.

I am a haphazard person when it comes to growing flowers, I don't put a lot of science behind it. I make sure I have some fresh soil and a bit of fertilizer and then I water them in well after planting. 

One thing, next time I do this I must remember to loosen up the roots of the starter plant better, I saw when I pulled them out this year some where still in the same conical shape. Regardless the plants as a group still did very well. 

As my petunias grow throughout the summer I do have a habit at taking a look daily and pinching off any of the dead blossoms, even if a branch of the plant is not doing well I will pinch that off as well. Why do I grow them as I do, well for the look of them, for the bees and all other creatures that like flowers and depend on them for their life. I love to see them looking pretty, I do grow more than just petunias as well, on a side note I find the petunias do better, for me, if they don't have full sun all day, mine get the later sun of the day, after noon and on, they do get at least a few hours, but they are not getting backed all day.

I'm in the Okotoks area, if you have any ideas on other plants that are easy to maintain in this area let me know. 
 

The Quiet Art of Being a Decent Person

The Quiet Art of Being Decent: A Guide for the Rest of Us

In a world that rewards outrage and self-proclaimed virtue, the bar for "good" feels perpetually out of reach, too lofty, too performative. But decency? That's different. It's not the halo of sainthood; it's the steady hand that doesn't push someone off the edge just because their view of the horizon differs from yours. Most of us fancy ourselves decent, just as we pat ourselves on the back for being "good." Yet, scroll through any comment section or family dinner, and you'll see the cracks: the tribal chants, the snide labels, the gleeful pile-ons. Being decent isn't about perfection; it's about restraint, empathy, and the courage to let others be wrong or different without making them the villain. Here's how to cultivate it, one unglamorous choice at a time. 

Step 1: Ditch the Posse MentalityHumans are pack animals, wired for belonging. That's why it's so tempting to rally the troops whenever someone challenges our sacred cows, be it politics, pineapple on pizza, or the proper way to load a dishwasher. But forming posses against dissenters? That's not solidarity; it's a mob with better Wi-Fi. Decency starts with solo reflection: Ask yourself, Is this disagreement a threat to my existence, or just an itch to my ego?Next time a colleague floats an idea that makes your eyes roll, resist the urge to DM your echo chamber. Instead, engage one-on-one. Listen, not to plot your rebuttal, but to understand. You might not convert them, and that's fine. Independent thinkers aren't the enemy; they're the spice that keeps conversations from turning into bland sermons. Remember, the person across from you isn't a walking manifesto. They're a messy human, just like you, deserving of the space to evolve without a digital guillotine hovering overhead. Step 2: Words as Weapons - Choose Yours WiselyName-calling is the laziest form of debate, a shortcut that says, "I can't win on merits, so I'll wound instead." "Idiot," "snowflake," "boomer", these aren't arguments; they're emotional grenades lobbed from the safety of anonymity. Decency demands we holster them. Why? Because words stick. They erode trust, harden hearts, and turn neighbours into no-man's-lands.The flip side? Speak with precision and kindness, even when you're fuming. "I see it differently because..." beats "You're delusional" every time. And when frustration bubbles up, pause. Walk the dog, brew tea, stare at a wall, anything to let the heat dissipate. This isn't weakness; it's mastery. It models the grace you hope others extend to you on your off days.Cancel culture, that modern-day scarlet letter, takes this a step further into vigilantism. Sure, call out harm, actual harm, like discrimination or abuse, but boycotting someone's job or friendships over a tweet? That's not justice; it's score-settling dressed as morality. Decency whispers: People change. Give them room to. If someone's views grate, unfollow, mute, move on. The world doesn't need more exiles; it needs more bridges, however rickety. Step 3: Spot the Line Between Difference and DangerHere's the caveat: Decency isn't blind tolerance. If someone's "beliefs" involve torches and pitchforks, harming others in the name of faith, ideology, or just plain spite, then gloves off. Speak up, support the vulnerable, vote with your feet. But conflating every contrarian opinion with malice? That's paranoia, not principle. A vegan railing against steak doesn't equate to a cult leader demanding sacrifice. Discernment is key: Is it words, or wounds? Ideas, or incitement?This ties into the neighbour trap. Just because the guy next door flies a flag you loathe or blasts tunes you hate doesn't make his way "good" by default. Blind conformity is the enemy of decency too, it's how echo chambers become fortresses. Question it all: your assumptions, their actions, the cultural Kool-Aid you're all sipping. Being decent means standing firm in your truths without demanding everyone else salute them. The Payoff: A World That's BearableBeing decent won't win you TED Talks or viral threads. It won't make headlines or mint you a martyr. But it will make your days lighter, your relationships deeper, and your conscience quieter. In a sea of performative goodness, decency is the anchor: unflashy, unglamorous, utterly essential. It reminds us that independent thinkers aren't threats, they're the raw material for progress.So, next time the itch to judge strikes, breathe. Choose curiosity over conquest. And if you slip? Apologize, sincerely, without qualifiers. That's decency in action: not a destination, but a daily practice. The world could use a few more of us trying. Who knows,
your quiet example might just inspire the posse to disband.

Stunning Epoxy Resin Makeover of an Old Oak Dining Table

Trash to Table: KassDays' Stunning Epoxy Resin Makeover of an Old Oak Dining Table

In the world of DIY furniture restoration, few transformations are as satisfying as turning a curbside castoff into a sleek, modern showpiece. That's exactly what Kass from KassDays, a YouTuber out of Calgary accomplished in his latest YouTube video, Trash to Table | Dining Table Makeover, uploaded on October 15, 2025. Starting with a battered old oak veneer dining table plagued by white spots, lifts, and years of wear, Kass embarks on an ambitious project to breathe new life into it using epoxy resin. What follows is a hands-on journey of sanding, gluing, filling, and pouring, complete with a few hiccups, that results in a glossy, red-tinted masterpiece. If you're a fan of "trash to treasure" flips, this one's got grit, creativity, and a whole lot of resin magic.The Starting Point: A Worn-Out Relic in Need of RescueKass kicks off the video by unveiling his find: a two-piece oak veneer tabletop attached to a pedestal base, riddled with age-related damage like stubborn white spots and lifted edges. "You won't believe what we did with this old worn-out dining table!" he exclaims in the description, setting the tone for a mind-blowing DIY adventure. Performed entirely outdoors to combat dust and heat, the project underscores Kass's philosophy: thorough preparation is key, and shortcuts are the enemy of quality results. With the table split into halves for easier handling, he dives in, armed with basic tools like a sander, wood glue, Bondo filler, and of course, epoxy resin.Step-by-Step: From Stripped Wood to Resined GloryKass's process is methodical, blending traditional woodworking with the modern allure of epoxy. Here's how he brought the table back from the brink:1. Stripping and Sanding the Old FinishThe first battle? Removing decades of grime and finish. Using coarse 60-grit sandpaper on a power sander, Kass tackles the top's bumps, dirt-filled grooves, and unsightly spots. He follows up with meticulous cleaning, wiping with a cloth and blasting away dust with an air compressor, to ensure a pristine base. For those tricky edges and crevices stubborn with glue residue, he switches to manual sanding. "Dust was everywhere," he notes, highlighting the outdoor setup's role in keeping things manageable.2. Stabilizing the StructureThis table's split design presented an early challenge: dirty, sticky joining edges that needed separation for a deep clean. Kass applies wood glue to dowel holes and edges, leaving a small gap for filler, then clamps the halves together. To beef up stability without messing with the pedestal base, he adds smaller brackets underneath, a smart pivot from his initial larger-bracket plan. Once dry, it's time to fill that pesky gap.3. Filling Imperfections for a Smooth CanvasEnter Bondo filler, Kass's go-to for creating a seamless surface. He spreads it across the centre gap, edges, and ridges using a plastic spatula, shaping it for even coverage. After it cures, hand-sanding removes the excess, flattening everything to perfection. Touch-ups follow for any lingering spots, ensuring the top is groove-free and ready for the next phase.4. Base Coat and Levelling PrepWith the wood prepped, Kass paints the top flat black in two coats using a brush and roller to minimize strokes. Levelling the table with a scale is crucial here—uneven surfaces spell disaster for resin pours. But as we'll see, this color choice sparks some drama later.5. The Epoxy Resin Pour: Where the Magic (and Mess) HappensThe star of the show: epoxy resin. Kass measures equal parts resin and hardener (about 444-452 ml each), mixes in red powder pigment, and stirs vigorously to avoid clumps. Masking tape dams the edges, and he pours the mixture onto the levelled top, letting it self-level into a mirror-like sheen. The first pour uncovers bubbles and unevenness, prompting a full sand-down. Undeterred, he re-pours after adjustments—switching the base to grey for better resin compatibility and adding a thin overlay to banish that middle groove. Timing the tape removal is an art: too soon, and you get thin runoff; too late, and edges don't seal properly.6. Polishing to PerfectionFinal touches involve fine-grit sanding to erase minor flaws like pigment dots (from under-stirring) and small grooves. A quick buff with resin polish restores the shine, yielding a smooth, glossy finish.Challenges Conquered: Lessons from the TrenchesNo DIY epic is without its plot twists, and Kass's project delivers. The black base paint? A resin rebel, it mixed poorly, spawning bubbles and imperfections that forced a total do-over, including sanding off everything and repainting grey for a marble-effect vibe. That persistent centre groove? It lingered post-pour, likely from incomplete filling or wood expansion; Kass muses a thinner overlay might've been wiser next time. Pigment clumping created pesky dots, dust was a constant foe, and early resin days warned against heavy items to avoid indentations. Through it all, Kass's first-time epoxy enthusiasm shines: "This is my first such project," he shares, openly inviting viewer tips.The Grand Reveal: A Modern Masterpiece BornBy the end, the humble oak table has evolved into a unified, solid-surface stunner—no more splits or scars, just a vibrant red epoxy glow over a sophisticated grey base. It's not flawless (minor polishes fixed the rest), but it's a far cry from its trashy origins: a durable, eye-catching dining centrepiece perfect for family gatherings. Kass's reflection? Preparation and precision pay off, turning potential pitfalls into pro tips for fellow flippers.If you're inspired to tackle your own furniture glow-up, KassDays' channel is a goldmine of vlogs, from Alberta ghost towns to motocross thrills. Head over to YouTube to watch the full transformation—it's just under 20 minutes of pure motivation.

Bumble Bee Boogie in Okotoks Ablerta

In this delightful snapshot, that fuzzy little visitor looks positively thrilled to be knee-deep in sunflower pollen, like it's throwing its own backyard bash under the Alberta sky!
Bumblebee Boogie in OkotoksOh, bumblebee, you plump ol' fluffball,
Black-and-gold stripes, with an orange sash so dapper,
You tumbled into my sunflower throne,
Pollen pockets full, like a fuzzy overcoat loan. From the prairies you buzzed, rare as a comet's wink,
Dodgin' the wind in Okotoks' blink,
While honeybees hustle in their hive-line grind,
You're the solo artist, leavin' glitter behind! Sip that nectar sweet, you rotund rover,
Turn my backyard bloom into a pollen bonanza fever.
If life's a garden, you're the wild card queen—
Keep buzzin', buddy, you're the bee I've always dreamed!

Discovering the Gadwall Duck in Okotoks

Discovering the Gadwall in Okotoks: A Moment of Serenity on the Sheep River

In the heart of Okotoks, Alberta, where the Sheep River winds through lush valleys and rocky banks, nature offers endless wonders for wanderers like us. Captured in this striking image is a lone duck perched gracefully on a weathered log amid the gentle flow of the river, embodying the quiet resilience of wildlife in this prairie landscape. Okotoks, known for its Big Rock erratics and proximity to the Rockies, provides a perfect habitat for migratory birds, drawing enthusiasts to its trails and waterways. This scene highlights the simple beauty of nature's everyday spectacles, reminding us to pause and appreciate the intricate balance of ecosystems in southern Alberta.

Upon closer inspection, this duck appears to be a female Gadwall (Mareca strepera), a common dabbling duck in North American wetlands. Identified by her mottled brown body, darker greyish head, and distinctive white speculum, a wing patch visible even when at rest, this bird blends seamlessly with her surroundings for camouflage. Unlike the more colorful males, females sport subtle plumage suited for nesting protection, with an orange-edged bill adding a hint of contrast. In Alberta, Gadwalls are frequently spotted in rivers and ponds, feeding on aquatic vegetation and invertebrates by tipping forward in shallow waters rather than diving.

The Gadwall has a rich history, with its name deriving from Old English roots meaning "to gad about," reflecting its nomadic tendencies. Native to Eurasia and North America, it was first described scientifically by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. In Canada, populations have thrived thanks to wetland conservation efforts by organizations like Ducks Unlimited, turning once-declining numbers into stable flocks. For birdwatchers in Okotoks, encounters like this underscore the importance of preserving riparian habitats, ensuring future generations can wander and witness these elegant creatures in their natural element. 

The Enchanted Wanderer

The Enchanted Wanderer in Okotoks

In the heart of Okotoks, Alberta, where the prairie skies stretch wide and the foothills whisper ancient tales, lived Mag, a woman whose spirit danced as freely as the wind through the wild grasses. With her sun-bleached blonde hair and eyes that mirrored the shifting hues of the Sheep River, Mag was a local, known for her strolls along the town's pathways, her arms swaying like branches in a breeze. Born and raised in Alberta, not far from Calgary, she had grown up amid the prairies blooming wildflowers and the hum of construction that shaped southern Alberta, finding beauty in both the natural and the evolving.

Mag was a creator at heart, her cottage home the riverbanks a gallery of her whimsy. Oil paintings of galloping deer and soaring hawks adorned her walls, each stroke a love letter to the outdoors she adored. She painted fantastical creatures from river stones and driftwood, imagining them as guardians of hidden glens. Her days were spent exploring the trails around Big Rock, where she’d sketch the rugged landscape, or wandering Kananaskis Country, her laughter mingling with the calls of loons. Animals seemed drawn to her, once, a curious fox trailed her home, curling up on her porch as if it belonged there, and she welcomed it with a grin. (Not a true one, but it fits the story.)

But Mag’s tale took a magical turn one crisp evening under a harvest moon. As she painted by the river, her brush dipped in starlight hues, a shimmering mist rose from the water. Out stepped a figure, a spirit of the plains, clad in a cloak of woven grass, who called herself Elara. "You’ve painted my realm with such joy," Elara said, her voice like rustling leaves. "Join me in a dance, and I’ll gift you a vision." Mag, ever the free spirit, twirled with the spirit, her feet barely touching the earth. When the mist cleared, she saw Okotoks transformed: fields blooming with enchanted flowers, streams singing melodies, and animals speaking in riddles. Elara’s gift was a brush that turned her art into life, each painting now birthed a fleeting wonder, like a deer that leapt from canvas to graze the hills.

From then on, Mag’s whimsy spread. Children from town sought her out, their eyes wide as she painted magical scenes, lions with wings, fish that flew, watching them come alive for a moment before fading into the ether. Her blog, though not the focus, hinted at these tales, shared with a wink and a promise of more mysteries. In Okotoks, Mag wasn’t just an artist; she was a weaver of dreams, a bridge between the real and the fantastical, her life a canvas where nature and imagination painted a story all her own. 

This is a tale, not all of it is truth, it is a story created to encourage people to dream.

Discovering Nature While Walking in Okotoks

Discovering Nature While Walking in Okotoks: A Mindful Moment Captured by Mag

In the bustling town of Okotoks, Alberta, where the foothills meet the prairies, there's an invitation waiting for everyone: step outside, go for a walk, and truly immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. As Mag, a passionate explorer of the everyday outdoors, I often find myself drawn to these simple yet profound experiences. This article is inspired by a single image, a vibrant cluster of young apples hanging from a tree branch, their skins a mix of fresh green and blushing red, set against a simple chain-link fence. It's a snapshot that encapsulates the essence of mindful walking in nature, reminding us to pause, observe, and connect with the world around us.

The Power of Walking in Nature

Walking isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's a gateway to rediscovering the beauty in our surroundings. In Okotoks, with its scenic pathways along the Sheep River and expansive green spaces like the Okotoks Natural Area, nature beckons at every turn. Imagine lacing up your shoes for a leisurely stroll, perhaps along the Rotary Park trails or through residential neighbourhoods where unexpected treasures await. As you walk, the key is to engage all your senses: feel the breeze on your skin, listen to the rustle of leaves, and inhale the earthy scents that fill the air.

This philosophy of mindful exploration is what led to the capture of the image in question. On a sunny afternoon walk in Okotoks, I noticed this apple tree branch arching over a fence, heavy with fruit in various stages of ripeness. The apples, small and plump, glowed under the sunlight, their colors shifting from lime green to soft pink. Surrounding them were lush, broad leaves, still dewy from a recent sprinkle, and in the background, the subtle outline of a home siding and a green fence— a perfect blend of urban and natural elements. It wasn't a grand vista or a famous landmark; it was an ordinary scene made extraordinary through attention.

Truly Looking: Noticing the Details in Okotoks' Nature

To truly look, as the thought behind this image suggests, means diving deeper than a glance. In nature-rich Okotoks, walking encourages us to notice the intricate details that often go unseen. Take those apples: their smooth skins dotted with tiny imperfections, the way the light highlights their curves, or how they cluster together like a family in conversation. What’s around them? A fence that speaks to human boundaries yet can't contain nature's reach, and beyond that, the quiet hum of suburban life.

Engage further, smell the faint sweetness of ripening fruit, touch the rough bark if you dare, or even listen for bees buzzing nearby. This sensory involvement transforms a simple walk into an adventure. In Okotoks, such moments are plentiful. Whether you're wandering the Crystal Ridge pathways or exploring the nearby D'Arcy Ranch, nature reveals itself in layers: wildflowers blooming by the roadside, birds flitting through trees, or the seasonal changes that paint the landscape anew.

Why Walking in Nature Matters for Well-Being

Research consistently shows that spending time in nature through activities like walking can reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance creativity. In a place like Okotoks, where urban convenience meets natural splendor, incorporating mindful walks into your routine is effortless. As Mag, I've made it a habit to capture these scenes not just with a camera, but with my full presence. The image of the apples serves as a reminder: in our fast-paced world, slowing down to observe can lead to profound appreciation.

If you're in Okotoks or planning a visit, start your own exploration. Grab your phone or camera if you wish, but prioritize the act of seeing. Notice the colours, the vibrant greens of foliage against the reds of fruit. Smell the fresh air mingled with floral notes. Get involved in the great outdoors, and you might just find your own hidden gems.

Capturing the Essence: A Personal Note from Mag

As the one behind the lens, I, Mag, encourage you to embrace this mindset. The image isn't just about apples on a tree; it's about the joy of discovery during a walk in nature. Next time you're in Okotoks, take that path less traveled, breathe deeply, and let nature unfold its stories. Who knows what you'll find?

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor drawn to Okotoks' charm, walking in nature here is more than exercise, it's a celebration of life's simple beauties. So, step out, explore, and truly look. Your next mindful moment awaits.

Rediscovering Peace

Rediscovering Peace: A Guide to Personal Growth and Comfort

In a world buzzing with demands—work, family, and the constant hum of technology—it’s easy to lose sight of your inner calm. Yet, peace isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for growth. This guide explores how to reclaim that serenity, nurture personal development, and carve out a sanctuary from everyday struggles, even if just for a moment. Picture an apple tree laden with fruit, like the one in your photo—its branches heavy with potential, offering shade and respite. Let that image inspire your journey.

Step 1: Acknowledge the Need for Peace

The first step is recognizing when life feels overwhelming. Stress can creep in silently, leaving you drained. Pause and ask: What’s stealing my calm? Maybe it’s a cluttered schedule or endless scrolling. Acknowledging this isn’t weakness—it’s the seed of growth. Like tending that apple tree, pruning away what doesn’t serve you sets the stage for renewal.

Step 2: Grow Through Reflection

Personal growth begins with understanding yourself. Set aside 10 minutes daily—sit with a journal or simply breathe. Reflect on what brings joy: the crunch of a fresh apple, the scent of morning dew, or the quiet of a garden. These moments build resilience. Studies suggest reflection boosts self-awareness by up to 25%, helping you identify what truly matters.

Step 3: Reclaim Your Peace

Taking back peace means setting boundaries. Say no to unnecessary commitments. Create a ritual—perhaps sipping tea under that apple tree or listening to birdsong. Small acts like these lower cortisol levels, easing stress. It’s not about escaping forever but reclaiming control, one breath at a time.

Step 4: Find Your Comfort Zone

Comfort is personal. For some, it’s a cozy nook with a book; for others, it’s gardening or tinkering with a car. Explore what soothes you—maybe it’s the tactile joy of picking apples or the rhythm of a walk. Comfort anchors you, offering a buffer against chaos. Lean into it daily, even if just for a few minutes.

Step 5: Create a Getaway Space

You don’t need a vacation to find solace. Design a micro-retreat: a corner of your yard with that apple tree, a chair by a window, or headphones with calming music. This space is yours to unplug from struggles—emails, news, noise. Even 15 minutes here can reset your mind, proving peace is portable.

Step 6: Sustain the Journey

Growth and peace are ongoing. Celebrate small wins—finishing a task, enjoying a quiet moment—and adjust as needed. If the getaway feels stale, refresh it with new elements, like a sketchpad or a podcast. Consistency turns these practices into habits, rooting you like that sturdy tree.

Final Thought

Life’s struggles won’t vanish, but you can rise above them. By growing through reflection, reclaiming peace, and finding comfort in a personal haven, you build a resilient self. Next time you pass that apple tree, let it remind you: growth and peace are within reach, ripe for the picking.