Atop Nana's Mountain

Snow angels and shots of Glayva atop Nana's Mountain (aka Tunnel Mountain) is how Emmett, Oscar, their parents and Auntie Clare remembered Nana yesterday. Oscar caught a ride on his Dad's back, while Emmett hiked the entire mountain almost by himself. They've been hiking up this mountain on March 30th for the past three years in honour of her, to remember her laughter and catch a glimpse of her spirit from high up on a cold winter's day. 

We sure do miss you, Nana. 

Fording his first dam river

Emmett and his parents headed out to Cobble Flats for some hiking and mountain time today. From the safety of his dad's back, Emmett forded his first river, the Elbow River. Ironically, Emmett crosses over this river further downstream almost every day on his way to the playground, but has never been in it.

Remembering the inadequate clothing they had for Emmett on their last hike, Emmett's mom opted to dress him in a nice warm base layer, and packed lots of extra clothes in case of inclement weather.

Fortunately, the weather was warm today, so the extra layers were not needed. But what Emmett's mom failed to notice was that the base layer was pink. Emmett was not impressed. Especially when other hikers commented on how cute "she" was.

The promise of building a dam was enough to get Emmett back into a good mood. Especially when it started to pour rain, just as they finished placing the last rock...

A week of July firsts

Emmett celebrated his first Canada Day with his first hike in the Rocky Mountains. He dragged his parents up to Wilcox Pass, where they braved snowy July conditions to catch a view of the Athabasca Glacier.

Unfortunately for Emmett, his parents are still new to hiking with an infant. Fortunately, they are extremely creative, and managed to find some hand warming devices in their backpacks. Even if they do make Emmett look like a dork.

July 1st activities in Jasper included a riveting Canada Day parade, complete with floats, Canadian Mounties, and an airport fire truck.

Emmett and his parents rounded out their Canada Day celebrations with another hike, this time with Auntie Clare, up to the top of Whistlers Mountain.

Once again, Emmett was riveted.