Changes and Surprises

We are halfway through week number four in Okotoks.  Patterns are emerging and our new life in southern Alberta is beginning to take shape.  There are definitely changes that have taken place and there have been more than a few surprises.

CHANGE 

MORE WALKING.  As we don't have a fenced yard (yet) for Coco, we are taking him for walks three and four times a day.  Sometimes Heather and I go together.  Other times, we go on our own.  I love these strolls and try to take the camera out for most of them.  There is no end to the walkable trails near our home.  Whether up the hill to the north or along the Sheep River to the south, there is always something to see and experience.

SURPRISE

DOORS WE USE.  When we toured this house back in March, I didn't get the sense that I would often use the bathroom on the main floor connecting to the mudroom or the door that leads to the back veranda.  As it turns out, those two amenities are, by far, the most used doors in the house.

CHANGE


MORE SPACE.  There is a lot more air space in this home than in our previous home in Fort McMurray, and lots more places to stretch out or enjoy some quiet time.  We are grateful for the room and will be able to easily host family and friends, comfortably.

SURPRISE

STUDIO ENERGY.  As you probably know, I was very attached to our little studio in Fort McMurray.  It felt so warm and inviting.  I'm feeling something different, yet similar, with the new Birdsong Studio in Okotoks.  It is very special being able to open the garage doors and let the light and air pour in.  There is also a sense of "possibility" that pervades the space.  We are only a few days away from all the work being completed.  I can't wait to officially begin operations and creations.

CHANGE


NEW COMMUNITY.  Being in a new community is a huge change in our lives after so many years of living in Fort McMurray.  That said, we already feel comfortable and welcomed here in Okotoks.  It is different - of that, there is no question - but we love it so far.  The people are incredibly friendly.  We are on a first name basis with several of our neighbours.  And I feel like we are a hop, skip and a jump from anything we could possibly need: stores, trails, nature, etc.

SURPRISE

QUICK TRANSITION:  It has been shocking to me to discover that when presented with absolutely no other option, one can accept and embrace their new circumstances very quickly.  While I had certain waves of emotion leaving our home of 20 years in Fort McMurray, as soon as we were on the highway I felt like I shifted to looking forward.  That orientation to the present and the possibilities of the future has remained constant.

PHOTOS:  all the photos were taken on our many walks in the neighbourhood over the last few days.

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