Family Time

At Radium Hot Springs

Resting at Dog Lake after a hike in.

In a previous post I mentioned how much I love the mountains and never got tired of watching them. While the views were spectacular, the best part was family. It was the first time in many, many years that Stephen and I have spent more one-on-one time together. Usually we are so busy between children and our professions that we have not really been relaxed to just enjoy each other's company. We often did not need a lot of words - it was just great to be around each other, something I hope can happen again.

I have always admired Stephen's passion for helping others so it did not surprise me that I saw this side of him camping as he took on the camp host role. He never was quick in doing his rounds in which he was suppose to count how many registered visitors there were are remind those who have not registered to do so. Stephen took his time to talk to the campers and get to know something about them. He also helped them with their difficulties. One was a motorcylclist who had hit a deer. He and his bike were quit banged up and Stephen spent time mending both.

"The Criminal"

Fort Steele

I also enjoy watching Stephen with his children - laughing with them, singing with them, playing with them, and talking with them. We all remember Stephen in his childhood, getting into all kinds of interesting situations all due to his curiosity and wreckless abandon. As an adult, it is good to see that he has not really lost that side of him. He is a true child at heart and I hope thia isnever lost. Stephen is a sensitive and understanding caregiver and I'm sure that his children will be fine, caring adults due to his influence.

Playing in the Kootney River

I loved spending quality time, whether it be just sitting around the campsite or playing a game, with Nathan and Kathryn. It's wonderful to see how Nathan is growing up to be a a fun-loving, friendly person who is smart and has a strong sense of self and of right and wrong. Kathryn is a risk taker who has a zest for learning, loves asking questions, and wants to be as grown up and do the same things as the rest of her siblings. This time with them is time well cherished.

The Mountains Shall Bring You Peace

Okay, I have been home now for two weeks and it is about time I let everyone know how much I enjoyed camping in the mountains. I had the best campsite - right on the river with the mountains as the backdrop. It rained on and off for our first three days. It was also on the cool side, although at night it was cold. It was so cold that I had to go into town and buy fuzzy, warm socks to keep me warm. I know - something Cathy hardly ever has to do!

Anyway, all the cold had its benefits. When we arrived the mountains were devoid of snow except the odd patch. When it rained on us it snowed on the mountains and after three days there was snow on the peaks. By the time we left, two weeks later, there was no snow again.

I loved seeing the changes over the two weeks I was there and watched the sky constantly. The darkness of an approaching storm was great to see.

Just as the title said, peace. There is more to this than just the view. It's the wildness of God's handiwork - the animals, the isolation, the majesty. Stunning!

The Kooteny Heart

*Most of these photos are taken from the campsite, or close to the site. Others were taken around Radium and one was taken at Fort Steele (the one with the buildings).