To reinforce the nature of our farming environment we came across this advert just before boarding our flight to Calgary. I might pass on this one!
And then ... an Air Canada flight with no mishaps! Left on time, arrived on time! A crystal clear night meant we could see every little community across the western prairies and imagine the rural lives being played out 8000 metres below us.
And so to more family partying...it being at least 6 weeks since I saw my Calgary cousins, some wine and food was priority, and another late night ensued; part of it, unbelievably, from the gazebo at the top of the yard - but with great views of the city and the night sky.
Then we woke to a startling cold blue sky day - well hardly cold by Alberta standards, but with wind chill up on the hills just outside the city it was a face numbing -15ºC or possibly lower. But what beautiful views over the city and beyond to the Rocky Mountains. On days like this and with skiing virtually on the doorstep I can see why it might be a pretty nice place to live. Bizarrely the last time I was here for Christmas the temperature broke national records - its was +20ºC, and we were walking around in t-shirts and shorts. Not this time!
And to complement a morning of outdoor (freezing) activity an afternoon cultural visit to the new Calgary Central Library, a simply sensational building downtown in an area of regeneration. Superb building which, from the evidence of our visit, appears to be well used and indicates that the world of libraries is not yet dead, if you make the facilities and the services relevant to modern use.
And so here are a few more pictures for what has been rather lovely day! And we have Queen's "We Will Rock You" to come tonight. I guess life ain't bad.
Not lost yet.
The obligatory silly selfie
Inside the beautiful library (and an idiot)
Overlooking the city from Nosehill Park
Just a fabulous day!