2016 Favourites in Photos

More and more I realize how thankful I am to live in a part of this world where I get to experience four seasons every year.  I love every season for a reason.  With the shades partially closing on 2016 (I never want them fully shut as I like to look back) it's time to acknowledge each of its months, each of its seasons, each for a reason.  

January 18, 2016

Bow River, Lake Louise Village, Banff National Park

On a very cold day at Lake Louise, I X-C Skied the Bow River Loop.  It took forever to complete the Loop because of distractions like this.  All that was needed was that bit of blue sky for the open water to offer up its brilliant jewel colored hue, filled with reflections all framed by a layer of virgin snow.

February 2, 2016
Mission Creek Preserve, Palm Springs, California

A mere three hours flight south of Calgary, I hiked to a place so beautifully desolate looking. I think how unique for the dead of winter to look like this.  The trail lead to a section of the Pacific Crest Trail that represents a place where I can let go and just be me.  

March 5, 2016
Lake Minniwanka, Banff National Park

Today was about catching up on a friendship and renewing it.  The ice breaking up on the lake means winter is wearing away and spring is on the way.  With that comes a renewed interest in donning the hiking boots once again and seeking out bare trails to explore. 

April 17, 2016
Barrier Lake, Kananaskis Country, Alberta

I have been to Barrier Lake and Barrier Lake Lookout many many times.  Today I saw them in a  different way which sparked a whole new appreciation.  Bending low for an eye level view at The Lake and then laying low for a nap at The Lookout were new experiences in old places.  

May 8, 2016

Nose Hill Park, Calgary, Alberta

So close but yet so far!  Right smack in the center of the metropolis of Calgary sits Nose Hill Environmental Park.  Paths in that park take me places when I quickly need to escape and get lost.  Simple scenery like this reminds me there is beauty right out my front door.

June 26, 2016
Lake Oesa at Lake O'Hara, Yoho National Park, British Columbia

Getting an opportunity to hike here is like winning the lottery, it's tough to get a winning ticket in. I was blessed to secure one seat on a day that was delightfully dreamy.  I was high enough physically to experience summer snow.  I appreciated every single second of this day!

July 1, 2016
Piegan Pass, Glacier National Park, Montana

There are so many things I enjoy about the United States National Parks especially when the drive for me is only three and a half hours to the trail head of one of the most beautiful hikes.  I shared today's Piegan Pass hike with a Ranger whose work is his pleasure.  

August 7, 2016
Fairview Mountain at Lake Louise, Banff National Park

We had days of miserable weather then an open window in the forecast appeared and I took a chance.   I was rewarded immensely when I hiked up through the clouds hoovering over Lake Louise.  I truly felt like I was "on top of the world".    

September 16, 2016
Black Point, Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia, It's where I feel at home.   Home it will always be!  

October 29, 2016
Pigeon Mountain, near Exshaw Alberta

When I head "out & about" I go prepared for everything.  Sometimes we get everything, sometimes nothing then there are times when you receive unexpected beauty and you realize how lucky you are to not take a gift like this for granted and you "remember to breathe" like you have never before! 

November 12, 2016

Junction Hill, Highwood House, Kananaskis, Alberta

I live so close to mountain playgrounds of all sorts, how fortunate I am.  These foothills present a different experience than the big mountains do.  This day we were afforded a November snow-free trek, rainbows and rays.  I enjoy variety and we received a "pot of gold" full of that today!

December 21, 2016

Bow River, Lake Louise Village, Banff National Park

My beginning and ending of 2016 favourite photos are both of the Bow River at Lake Louise Village.    That says something right there.  I love early morning visits here to experience the colors, the views and the peacefulness.  What a treasure!

I am truly thankful for every opportunity I got to be "out & about" exploring such beautiful places.