After two weeks confined to a hospital bed, the world outside had transformed into a vibrant tapestry of green. During my stay, the weather swung wildly from blowing snow to warm sunshine, masking the gradual progression of spring. But now, heading into the foothills and especially into the Pine Creek valley just southwest of Calgary, I was astonished by the change. The last time I visited, snow and ice dominated the scene. Now, everything was lush and green, with each day bringing more verdant life.
A Spontaneous Journey
It was a spur-of-the-moment decision to explore this area. I had originally planned to head west but discovered I'd forgotten my phone, forcing a return home. By the time I retrieved it, it was nearly noon, and the best morning light had faded. However, clouds began building, rain started to fall, and the soft light created a different kind of beauty. So I turned south and west to a closer spot, eager to witness the transformation.
Vibrant Greens and Birdsong
The greens along Pine Creek and the Cross Conservancy were incredible, glowing in the soft cloudy light and fleeting patches of sunshine. Pastures were emerald carpets, and ditches brimmed with fresh growth pushing through last year's brown remains. Birds were everywhere. Stopping to photograph a robin, I spotted two bluebirds in their bright spring plumage. One posed nicely on a fencepost, while from my rolled-down window, I could hear song sparrows, chickadees, robins, and the soft calls of the bluebirds. Despite the 7°C temperature, the cool air was invigorating as I drove with the heater on and the window down.
Wildlife Encounters
The soft rain mixed with snow pellets that dimpled beaver ponds on Pine Creek. Among the many birds, the most intriguing was a sora rail, a small, chubby bird with a bright yellow beak and brown feathers that blend into its surroundings. It foraged along pond edges, moving in and out of cattails and beaver-felled trees. Mallards, teal, geese, yellow warblers, and several sparrow species were also present. Ravens and harriers flew overhead, while redwing blackbirds called from their perches. In the distance, a bald eagle fed at least one young on its nest.
Storms and New Growth
As I crossed the ridge above the valley, rain turned to pea-sized hail. Cattle lay in the greening grass, ignoring the weather as clouds bubbled in the sky. The summit was cold, with the dashboard thermometer reading 3°C, and hail began to turn to snow. Fortunately, it didn't last long. In the next valley, soft rain returned, and drops hung on poplar branches and still-opening buds. New leaves were everywhere: on saskatoons, currants, fragrant balsam poplars, and tiny round aspens. Bright yellow willow flowers, heavy with pollen, promised insects on warmer days.
A Pond Visit
Seeking different birds, I visited a deeper pond in the hills. There, I found coots, gadwalls, teal, and ring-necked ducks. The males were particularly handsome with bright golden eyes and blue and white beaks; their heads shimmered iridescent purple in certain light. They were wary, however, and quickly disappeared among the cattails. Redwing blackbirds were more accommodating, posing and performing near the truck, flashing their bright red epaulettes and calling loudly.
The weather continued to shift, alternating between sunny moments and hail. Rolling purple clouds tumbled over bright green hills, and wind gusts shook raindrops from leaves. From the hilltops, I could see storm cells in the distance, some churning with rain, others trailing curtains of precipitation. Here on the edge of the storms, rain and hail mixed with cold sunshine, and clouds took on various shapes and shades depending on the direction.
Cattle and Stormy Skies
The cattle remained unfazed by the weather, focused only on feeding on green grass and relaxing to chew their cud. They grazed and lazed as patches of sunshine zipped across the land. The storms illuminated the glorious greens, making aspens, poplars, and grass glow in the fleeting light.
Yes, I missed the greening while lying in that hospital bed. But now, I am more than happy to witness and enjoy it.
