Going to Miss Alberta, Canada

Long but fabulous day here in Alberta, riding in the morning then a great car ride up to the Canadian Rockies. Now back at my luxury cabin at the Rocking R Guest Ranch and a hot tub for sore body parts done. The vista before me changes as the wind moves clouds across the prairie. I can only think what a week here.

Thunder storms and thundering horses, Stampede and horses calling, Alberta beef and friendly folks, it all has been grand. The west in me is stirred again, lived in AZ for 12 years. I now understand why Clapton sang, “Alberta, Alberta, Where you been so long”? Alberta now lives in a piece of my heart.

The Rocking R Guest Ranch, Alberta

I can get skeptical when reading reviews on Trip Advisor, but the 100% approval of the Rocking R Guest Ranch in Strathmore, Alberta is 100% right on. This place is magic and so perfect. The cabin (much more) has everything you need to relax and revive. The grounds stunning and the feeling is one of being a rich rancher, if nearby do yourself a favor and stay!

Crossing the Open Plains of Alberta

I flipped on the trail today due to storms, headed out into the plains instead of the mountains here in Alberta. Dark clouds passed like curtains and patches of rain fell in sheets. I did get to the Badlands and Dino ville, and then criss-crossed on back roads.
Scenic vistas out every window, stirring the soul, Wheatland Alberta, till I ended up at the Rocking R Guest Ranch in Strathmore. The Bunk House is superb, rolling lake views and Navajo rugs, the neighing horses just out back. Banff in the morning but back to the Rocking R for my last night.

Big Day and Night at the Calgary Stampede

What a day it was in Calgary yesterday, from barns and mud to splendor and a massive stage show unparalleled in slick stage presence. Started the day checking out the barns where the horses for the chuck wagon races are kept. Chuck Wagon racing is not as it sounds, it is fast and thrilling and fraught with danger and outriders. Skill and knowledge is needed to do the course and get to the finish.

Last evening I dinned at Ranahans, the premium private venue located in the Grandstand of the Stampede. Western dress and great food in a beautiful space is heaven. Then I got up close and at the rail for the actual races to shoot hundreds of photos of the harried and hectic chuck wagon heats.

Ended the night with a show that blew me away, stage spectacles and fireworks mixed in with talent made it an extravaganza. This was one memorable day and just day three of the http://calgarystampede.com/
, seven more to go. Packing up and headed to a little road trip to Banff and then my base for the next two nights at the Rocking R Ranch. Time to saddle up!