Exciting news this year as I’ve been drawn for mule deer hunting around the farm! Our strategy is to set up camp in the yard and head out on the first day to bag my tag. We’re starting our adventure on Friday after work, intending to stay until my tag is filled, or at least that’s the plan.
Once my tag is secured, we’re contemplating either assisting John with his moose hunt or possibly venturing west of Sundre for a bull elk. The decision will be made on the spot, depending on circumstances and opportunities. Regardless of the choice, we have a full week of vacation ahead, and we’re determined to make the most of every moment!
As of October 14, 2020, we’ve already experienced our first significant snowfall, with a blanket of 2-3 inches of fresh snow and overnight lows plunging to -13°C! It certainly seems like winter might be settling in for the long haul.
During my return journey from last weekend’s hunting and camping trip, I noticed that there’s still a considerable amount of harvest left to be completed in the Sundre area. I sincerely hope that the farmers can wrap up their harvest this year despite the early winter conditions.
When I received the call from John and Pops a week ago inviting me for a crossbow hunting trip, my immediate response was a resounding YES! The idea quickly evolved into a weekend camping escapade, and I wasted no time in preparing our fifth wheel for the adventure. Fortunately, the timing aligned perfectly as I had the next week off from work.
With excitement bubbling, I wrapped up a short workday on Thursday and hit the road, eager to begin our outdoor journey. Although I invited Joanne to join for the weekend, she declined due to concerns about the cold weather and not wanting to idle around camp. Undeterred, I discovered a fantastic spot along the Red Deer River that I decided would be our home for the next few days.
Setting up camp, gathering firewood, and unwinding with a drink by the fire felt like a breath of fresh air, reconnecting me with the joy of camping out west. The following Friday morning brought a bit of confusion as John and Pops were unsure of my exact campsite location, resulting in a two-hour drive for them. After a comical encounter where we missed each other on the road, we finally reunited at the camping area, ready for a day of quad biking and possibly some Elk hunting.
Despite a few hiccups, like John forgetting his gloves and a brief detour back to the truck, the day kicked off with an exhilarating wildlife sighting – a cow elk followed by a majestic bull crossing our path. The sight left us in awe, especially Dad, who had the chance to witness a magnificent bull elk.
Amidst sharing stories of our unexpected wildlife encounter, we embarked on a full day of riding, enjoying campfires to warm up, and soaking in the breathtaking views along the way. Despite covering a total of 40 miles on our quads, Dad never once complained, making the day even more enjoyable and memorable.
Such an amazing day!!
Amazing views to the WestAw…So NiceMonday Morning WakeupChilly MorningBeautiful River in the background
After bidding farewell to Dad and John on Friday night, I had a lingering doubt that they might not return, fearing we may have pushed Pops too hard with a lengthy day out, especially as the weather took a colder turn in the forecast. As expected, I woke up somewhat late on Saturday, rustled up breakfast, and geared up for a day of riding, expecting to spend it solo.
As I was about to leave camp, I was flagged down by a group from Calgary asking where they could find firewood, shockingly admitting they didn’t bring a chainsaw. With surprise written all over my face, I quipped, “Oh, I’ll be back!” Heading into the forest, I quickly located a standing dead tree, a decision made easier by the fact that one of them had visited my camp the previous night, sharing stories about their trip and fireworks display. I felled the tree, hauled it back to their camp, only to find out that the person who needed the chainsaw had never used one before! Fortunately, his buddy stepped in to help, and I made a swift exit before any mishaps occurred.
Before I could ride off, they graciously invited me to join them for a turkey fry later that evening, given it was Thanksgiving. “Okay!” I agreed, before heading back to my camp. After a chilly day of riding, I returned to find their firewood neatly chopped without any injuries, much to my relief. I enjoyed a quick beer with them before retreating to my camp to freshen up and park the quad for the night.
Little did I expect that I would have such an incredible time with Tim, Leanne, Warren, Jen, Kate, and Jake, even if only briefly. The turkey was delicious, the drinks were flowing, and the camaraderie was unmatched. Of course, the next morning’s hangover was less than delightful – I hadn’t slept until noon in ages!
After they departed, I endured a few chilly nights with the furnace working overtime, prompting me to conclude that camping alone in the fall and winter wasn’t worth the hassle. Tuesday morning, I packed up and headed home, reflecting on a weekend packed with unforgettable moments. And in just two weeks, I’ll be gearing up for another adventure – this time, hunting with Matthew. Can’t wait!
Once again my roses are doing incredibly well. The summer has had a lot of rain which has made the flowers look amazing!!
I continue to go to the farm every weekend to mow and weed whack. The rain keeps the grass growing and yards looking green. Mom and Dad continue to limit their outings due to the Covid.
Well, where do I start? Let’s start with my Mom and Dad, so they are staying under lock down in their condo in Airdire!! Only going to the farm a couple times a week leaving the mowing and weed whacking to me to do for the summer. Every weekend I have been heading down to look after the yard. Sometimes ending with a few beers with a bro or two. With all that my parents have done for me this is a easy way to slowly return the favor. MINOR!! I must say I have really enjoyed it!! Shooting clay pigeons, watching the old man shoot his crossbow or just visiting over a beer. Even one day ending with Henry drinking some Red Wine Vinegar!! It can’t get any better than that for sure!!
The Covid-19 virus still has us in her grips with NO end in sight. Were all suffering with the New Normal.
Here we are starting the summer of 2020 and things have really changed. Most if not all restaurant’s and bars have been shut down by the provincial government!! WOW, things are scary and may never go back to the way they were. I never thought that I would see the day when a virus would have such a hold on us, our economy, our world as we knew it. Airline travel is down to minimum, the USA / Canadian is shut down and things are far from under control. Thousands of cases in the USA and Alberta, well were about 100 every 3 days or so. Sanitizer’s are now in every vehicle that I drive!! Wiping down gas station pumps, shopping carts and pretty much everything that we touch. We all have to do our part and maybe we can keep our numbers down until there is a vaccine.
Well here we are, 2 weeks into a Social Distancing realization!! This virus is spreading like crazy and we all have a part in trying to control it. Limited outings to grocery stores with constant cleaning of everything around us. At work, we are all home-based with one person per vehicle. Dining options are takeout only!! Wow, I can’t believe this is really happening. LET’S ALL DO OUR PART AND STOP THE SPREAD
Well this week has been brutally cold!! Many evenings below -40 or -50 with the wind chill. Spent a few nights out making sure houses were warm. So glad this doesn’t happen very often. Warmer times ahead in the forecast…
