Wednesday, October 20, 2010

They paved paradise and put up... a golf course?

This fall's weather continues to remain above average, which had me itching to get my road bike out. This past weekend I headed east of town to my usual South Cooking Lake - Miquelon loop where the shoulders are smooth and the traffic is always light.
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The farmers have been in high gear for weeks and today was no exception. Combines plying the fields in clouds of dust. I can taste the dust in the air and feel it's grit collect in the sweat on the back of my neck. Its part of fall in the prairies and probably contributes to the fabulous sunrises/sunsets at this time of year. I've noticed several operations have grain piled in the yards rather than in the bins. Crops must be good this year.
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I was feeling strong and decided to extend my loop to the east side of Tofield. (Turns out this extra energy was from a brisk tail wind, which I paid for on my return trip.)  At first I thought this sign was a joke but then it occurred to me that this was perfect solution to Alberta's environmental image woes - Oil Sands Creek Golf Course, Tailings Pond View Golf & Country Club... Not only does this create jobs, generate revenue and provide recreation opportunities, laying turf greatly simplifies reclamation. As a bonus the CO2 emission will soon allow golfing year round.
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This roadside monument commemorates the church of Bardo, which was struck by lightening not once but twice before the residents relocated the building to Tofield. Wise decision.
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The nice weather is fading fast - every day this week is forecast to be colder than the last ending with wet snow by the weekend. I'm glad I got in one final road ride this season. Time to get back to running.

Thursday, October 7, 2010

k-country: ribbon falls and porcupine creek

Had wonderful weather for hiking last weekend in Kananaskis country. I've no time for trail descriptions so pictures will have to suffice.

Ribbon Falls:
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ribbon falls4: pcf and cmg
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ribbon falls6: a hearty lunch
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Porcupine Creek:
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