On Sunday we wound our way through Rogers Pass in the Canadian Rockies making a short stop at noon near the Spiral Tunnels. Deep beneath the mountains pictured above are tunnels which spiral in a wide route up and down the rapid changes in elevation. Railroad tracks guide freight trains through these tunnels allowing for easier navigation of the steep grades than what was possible before these spirals were completed in 1909. Prior to that project being completed there were many trainwrecks. Today, more than a century later, the “trainwrecks” are mostly caused by governments and special interests holding up … Continue reading Mountain High Noon

If you ever visit Alberta’s third largest city of Lethbridge, you owe it to yourself to take in the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden next to Henderson Lake. It was created as an official Canadian Centennial project in 1967. The principles of Japanese garden design and architecture have been combined with plants and geographical features of southern Alberta to create a fusion of “East and West”. Now, I cannot do justice to the impact this garden should have on the intelligent and aware visitor. It is a peaceful and relaxed place. And this.And more.But wait,There is more,And more,This was a fine … Continue reading Peace and Tranquility

So, our breakfasts at Mocha Cabana Bistro were very good. It is one of those “farm to table” establishments that try very hard to support locally sourced fresh ingredients. Marlene had the “traditional” Eggs Benedict. She said: “Many places think they know how to make the ‘perfect benny’ with the ‘perfect Hollandaise’ but these people know how to do it”. It looks heavy but the sauce was light and perfectly balanced with lemon. I went for the basic bacon and egg breakfast. The Hutterite bacon was correctly prepared as were the locally sourced “over easy” eggs and toasted artisan bread. … Continue reading On The Road Again

Mocha Cabana Bistro in Lethbridge, where the cappuccino comes cowboy-sized. Continue reading Cowboy Country

In a bit of self-indulgence I am planning to post some adventures from a road trip starting today from Edmonton. It’s not just that autumn is in the air, as witness the photo taken today before leaving. That tree’s leaves are definitely turning color. And, the Canada geese have been rallying for trips of their own. Sigh. Continue reading Road Trip

I know it’s been a summer at latitude 53 degrees north that challenges one’s “benevolent universe” premise, but there are good things in my little corner. Continue reading Safe Haven