Just as the sun peaked above the plains, I wandered to the edge of the bluff and peered into the peaceful valley below. A handful of crimson-red buildings – a couple of barns, a cookhouse, a chophouse, a post office, and more – stood in the clearing, a thin sheen of fog hung overhead, and the snow-dusted mountains rose-red in the distance. A wispy column of smoke drifted through the aspens near the creek – the round-up fire – and the sweet scent of coffee lingered in the air. After taking in this idyllic southern Alberta scene at the historic Bar U Ranch this “cowboy” gathered up his belongings, strode down the hill, and headed for the warmth of the fire. Read More