Homeward bound

Due to a tent trailer debacle, we spent an unexpected bonus day at the campground sleeping 4 of us in a 2 man tent with only yoga mats for padding. We did our best to make lemonade out of lemons.

 It was a welcome relief to be back in Alberta and passing Frank slide.

 I love this image of an abandoned building at sunset.

Seriously cute

 Watching the kids play and seeing the joy on their faces just makes me smile.

 After some playground time we indulged in the local ice cream.

Whitefish lake and farmer's market

 The kids show off their impressive lakeside fairy garden.

 We managed to fit all Crampton cousins except Ginny and Natasha on our hammock.

  This reminds me of when Bryan and I would watch Pinky and the Brain.

 If I could go to a farmer's market every day I would!

The Butte

After two days of long rides and marginal weather, the ground had dried enough for us to go up the butte. We saw two coyotes as we ascended and were treated to a picnic lunch and a vista at the top.

 There are hoodoos at the summit and sturdy flora.

This photo with a patch of light shining in the valley is my favourite. I love the textures of the weathered rock and the contrast of the soft clouds.

 Ginny was a friendly and attentive host and our group had good camaraderie.

 There is an eagle's nest perched on an outcropping below.

After a great time teaching yoga and enjoying much time in the saddle, we head south to Montana. On the way, we pass the Burmis tree (a Limber pine which lived for 700 years) near Pincher Creek. It is, apparently, the most photographed tree in Alberta.

 When we arrive in Whitefish, the resident pileated woodpecker greets us.

The Livingstone range

 Hawk took me on a rambling ride through the foothills.

We saw a bear loping up on the hill (though I was not quick enough to photograph him). Watching the sheer strength of his shoulders as he ran was very impressive, even from a distance.

Prairies

 It is fun to try to capture prairie views as a passenger in a vehicle.

 The kids and Kona and I donned rubber boots to walk in the ravine.

We arrived at Sierra West and the kids have their own mini cabin - it is only big enough for a small bed and baseboard heater.

Edmonton

 I headed up to Edmonton for a mini reunion.

 My first pedicure ever.

 It was good to spend a weekend with friends.