Forgetmenot May 18, 2024

It's time! The gate opened on Wednesday!  The weather forecast for today said "go now"!  I hit the highway just after the crack of dawn and followed Route 66 to Forgetmenot Pond!  This is an annual tradition of mine and today was an absolute stunner!  I owned the entirety of 66 so drove well below the limit and took in every single sight along the way.  This was my first view this season of Forgetmenot Ridge.  The rain in the city yesterday fell as snow in the mountains.   

Shortly after stopping to capture the above photo, I then stopped again thinking the wild mustangs were going to cross the road in front of me. They didn't cross, this one stopped and starred.  I drove a few feet further then rolled down the window to take this photograph. I checked my rear view mirror as I drove away only to see it watch me as I drove away.  

It was time for winter wear at Forgetmenot Pond!

Before leaving home, I poured the rest of my unfinished coffee into a thermos and added a tablespoon of hot chocolate powder.  Sipping it here hit the spot, being in the perfect spot to sip it! 

reflection of Powderface Ridge in Forgetmenot Pond

beautiful morning light

There were sights like this to see when I took detours off the main path.  The water in the creek was so crystal clear I could see every single rock. I could even see the rocks through the cloud reflections closer to my feet as I stood at the edge.  

first tracks in the snow

(I made them then walked back through the bush on the left.)

the Elbow River

I took this photo after crossing that pink suspension bridge, after following a trail, then looking back. Lots of snow came down yesterday.  The snow makes those mountains look larger and closer.  

While hiking back towards the Pond, I happily spotted more wild mustangs.  This is a Mom and her colt.  I believe that colt may have been born last year.  I wondered if the Mom is pregnant, she looks a bit plumb in the belly.  

Dad was watching over them from up on a hill!

This was the view when I returned to Forgetmenot Pond.    

I want to get back out there within the next two weeks, with a load of wood, lunch, a book and my hammock.  I hope the stars align, if they don't then some time in late June or July will be just as fine!