I would say I'm part of the one percent when it comes to experiencing nature in the Canadian Rockies, even if it is mostly in Banff and occasionally venturing into Kootenay, Yoho, and Jasper national parks. When I think about all the flora and fauna, sunrises and sunsets, and other things I've seen first hand over the years, I wouldn't trade my spot with anyone. And I have many years to go. There's a reason why getting my sleep, eating right, and being active are my top three priorities to stay healthy for everything in life. Getting out with my camera for many more years is high on the list.
A couple of years ago, in the middle of the winter, I filled up the car's tank with gas before enjoying the drive back to the mountains from Calgary. A gas attendant asked after finding out I lived in Banff NP. "What do you do in Banff? "Don't you get bored?" I replied, "I enjoy nature, and there is no time to get bored."
November was when I got this picture of M122. He had gone into the woods. I waited in my car, as I knew he was going to be out in the open soon. My heart began to race as I became excited, anticipating seeing him in the open. I was not scared, I knew I was safe in the car. It's nature, it still has this powerful effect on me. A sight of wood lilies on the edge of a forest, a Yellow Warbler calling from a willow shrub, a beautiful morning sunrise, Northern Lights over Mount Rundle, perfect grizzly tracks on wind-blown snow, or the grizzly who made those tracks a week later.
Life is short. Spend as much time as you can doing things that get your heart beating faster. Don't wait until you have more time. Make time. The only difference will be for me when I have more time. My pictures will get better.
