Cinnamon Buns - Quick and Easy or the True Homemade Recipe - What do you Prefer?

If you're a fan of sweet, gooey cinnamon buns but don't have the time or patience for a lengthy baking process, you're in luck! Making cinnamon buns the quick and easy way is totally possible, and the results are just as delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever shortcuts, you can have fresh, homemade cinnamon buns in no time.

To start, you'll need a tube of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough. This pre-made dough is a convenient and time-saving base for your cinnamon buns. Simply pop open the tube, unroll the dough, and you're ready to start assembling your buns.

Next, you'll want to prepare the cinnamon sugar filling. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. Then, spread a generous layer of softened butter over the unrolled dough, and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the buttered dough.

Now comes the fun part - rolling up the dough! Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight spiral. Once rolled up, use a sharp knife to slice the dough into individual buns. Place the buns in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.

Bake the cinnamon buns according to the package instructions, until they are golden brown and the aroma of cinnamon fills the air. While the buns are baking, you can whip up a quick and easy cream cheese frosting to drizzle over the warm buns once they come out of the oven.

In just a short amount of time, you'll have a batch of mouthwatering cinnamon buns that are sure to impress. Whether you're enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day, these quick and easy cinnamon buns are a delicious choice. With this simple recipe, you can satisfy your cinnamon bun cravings in no time at all.

The buns shown in the image were actually made with a yeast bun recipe. I did not add all of the icing either, only the cinnamon sugar was rolled into it, not too much sugar like, there was barely a glaze underneath them after baking. 

Click the read more to make them completely from scratch, the best Cinnamon Buns.

Vibrancy in the Fall Okotoks

As the summer days begin to fade away, the world around us transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant colours. The fall season brings with it an explosion of hues - from fiery reds and oranges to rich yellows and deep greens. Everywhere you look, nature's palette is on full display, creating a stunning backdrop for the changing seasons.

One of the best places to experience the beauty of fall colours is in Okotoks, a charming town nestled in the heart of Alberta, Canada. A few years ago, we had the pleasure of visiting this picturesque town during the peak of fall foliage season. The streets were lined with trees ablaze in shades of red, gold, and orange, creating a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable.

We spent our days exploring the parks and trails, marvelling at the beauty of the changing leaves. The crisp autumn air filled our lungs as we meandered through forests illuminated by the warm glow of the sun filtering through the colourful leaves above. Every corner turned revealed a new burst of colours, each more vibrant than the last.

I have a couple more pictures included in the read more, one is not from Okotoks, it's the cool grasshopper from Las Vegas, or is it a Preying Mantis? 

Calgary to Alaska, First Day of the Journey

Embarking on a journey from Calgary, Alberta to Alaska in the fall is a truly magnificent experience. The changing colors of the leaves, the crisp air, and the anticipation of reaching the majestic land of Alaska fill the air with excitement and wonder. However, the first day of the trip may only take you as far as Hinton, Alberta, a charming town nestled in the Canadian Rockies. 

As you depart from Calgary, you will witness the stunning transition from urban landscape to the natural beauty of the Rockies. The towering mountains, lush forests, and winding rivers are a sight to behold. Along the way, you may also encounter wildlife such as elk, moose, and even bears, adding an element of adventure to the journey.

Upon reaching Hinton, you will be greeted by its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The town offers a variety of attractions, including the Beaver Boardwalk, a tranquil wooden pathway through a wetland teeming with birdlife, and the Hinton Bike Park, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

The Stunning Beauty of the Liard River and the Hot Springs

If you're planning a trip to Alaska from Calgary, Alberta, consider stopping to take in the views of the Liard River along the way. The Liard River is a majestic waterway that winds its way through the northern regions of British Columbia and the Yukon Territory, and it offers some truly breathtaking views for travellers passing through.

The Liard River is one of the longest rivers in Canada, stretching over 1,100 kilometres from its headwaters in the Northwest Territories to its confluence with the Mackenzie River. The river is known for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

As you make your way north towards Alaska, be sure to take some time to stop and appreciate the beauty of the Liard River. Whether you're driving, cycling, or hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning scenery and get a taste of the rugged beauty that the north has to offer.

The starting point of your travel, Calgary, Alberta, is a vibrant city with plenty to offer travellers. From its lively arts and culture scene to its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, Calgary is a great place to kick off your journey to Alaska. As you head out of the city and make your way towards the north, you'll have the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness, including the awe-inspiring views of the Liard River.

So, if you're looking for a truly memorable road trip to Alaska, be sure to make a stop along the way to take in the views of the Liard River. It's an experience that is sure to stay with you long after your journey is over. 

Pictures attached of the Liard River Hot Springs can be found in the Read More

We looked for Wild Horses, No such Luck on that but McCullough Peaks

Didn't have any luck finding the wild horses but we did get extremely lucky at capturing the beauty that can be found in the areaMcCullough Peaks Wild 

Horse Herd Area: An Adventure Awaits

Nestled in the beautiful state of Wyoming, the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Area offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. While it is famously known for its wild mustang population, there is much more to uncover in this enchanting landscape.

As soon as you set foot in the McCullough Peaks, it's impossible to escape the charm of the untamed wilderness. Picture stunning vistas, rolling hills, and vast grasslands stretching as far as the eye can see. The area covers over 110,000 acres, providing ample opportunity for exploration and immersing oneself in the rugged beauty of the American West.

Of course, the main attraction of the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Area is its namesake inhabitants. A person can hope to encounter the awe-inspiring wild mustangs that roam freely throughout the region. These majestic creatures, descendants of the horses brought by Spanish explorers centuries ago, live harmoniously in their natural habitat. Observing these horses in their element is a truly remarkable experience, showcasing their untamed spirit and inherent beauty.

The Beauty of the Rising Sun: A Timeless Spectacle

No matter the temperature, the rising sun never fails to mesmerize and captivate us with its breathtaking beauty. Its arrival each morning marks the beginning of a brand new day, full of endless possibilities and opportunities. From the warmth it brings to the world, both physically and emotionally, to the stunning colours it paints across the canvas of the sky, the rising sun has forever held a special place in human hearts.

Nature's magnificent display of the rising sun is universally cherished and cherished by people all over the world, transcending cultural, geographical, and language barriers. It is a spectacle that evokes a sense of wonder, awe, and gratitude, touching our souls and uplifting our spirits.

One cannot help but pause and be still for a moment in the presence of the rising sun. Whether it emerges behind a mountain peak, over a calm sea, or peeks through a forest, its arrival invites us to witness the miracle of a new day dawning. The soft golden hues that gradually fill the horizon create a serene atmosphere, enticing us to briefly detach from the hectic pace of life and appreciate the simple beauty that surrounds us.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the rising sun carries profound symbolism. It symbolizes hope, renewal, and the promise of a fresh start. Watching the sun ascend from darkness to light instills a sense of optimism and encourages us to embrace new beginnings. As its warm rays of sunlight touch the world, it awakens a sense of inner peace and confidence within us, instilling a belief that each new day carries the potential for growth and happiness.

Capturing the Beauty in Nature

Capturing the Beauty of Nature: Embracing the World Through Outdoor Photography

In a fast-paced and technology-driven world, finding solace in the beauty of nature can be a truly rejuvenating experience. Stepping outside, breathing in the fresh air, and immersing oneself in the natural surroundings can work wonders for the mind, body, and soul. Nature has a way of captivating us with its unmatched serenity, and one powerful tool that can truly capture its essence is photography.

When we venture outdoors with a camera in hand, we open our eyes to see the world in a whole new light. Through the lens of a camera, nature reveals itself in ways that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. The subtle colours of a sunrise, the delicate petals of a flower, or the grandeur of a mountain range—all these moments are preserved through the art of outdoor photography.

One of the unique aspects of photography is its ability to freeze time and immortalize a single instant. Nature, in all its splendor, is constantly in motion. Waves crash against the shore, leaves rustle in the wind, and birds soar across the sky. Capturing these fleeting moments allows us to relive them again and again, reminding us of the endless beauty that surrounds us.

Through the lens, we become not just spectators, but intimate witnesses to the intricate details that nature provides. The fine textures of tree bark, the delicate patterns on a butterfly's wings, or the sparkling droplets of dew on a leaf—it is through photography that we can truly appreciate these minute elements that contribute to the grand tapestry of nature.