Little Blue Church with a Golden Dome

The congregation of Saints Peter and Paul Romanian Orthodox Church was organized in 1942.

Originally the church was located on a farm about ten miles north of Bonnyville but in 1952 the parish decided to move it into town where it presently stands in a quiet residential area.  A few years later in 1954 the altar sanctuary (apse) was added and in 1959 the golden dome was built.

The exterior has recently received new paint, new windows and a new roof.  I would imagine the interior is as lovely as it's always been.

Information courtesy of Patriarchal Parishes of Russian Orthodox Church in Canada.

Photographed in Bonnyville, Alberta on June 25, 2022.

The Statue at Elk Point

An impressive wood carving at the north entrance to Elk Point, Alberta.

Another protective parent keeps an eye on me from on top of the tall fence.

Photographed on June 24, 2022.

Stormy Weather at the Gray Homestead

This photogenic old homestead is north of Cereal, Alberta.

Photographed on June 23, 2022.

Ripple

A small part of one of the trails through the vast and seemingly endless Grasslands National Park in southern Saskatchewan.  A wonderful place to spend the day.

Photographed on March 25, 2022.

Milly

Last visited Milly about five years ago.

She seems to be holding her own.

Photographed near McCord, Saskatchewan on May 26, 2022.

Johnny Jump Ups

We haven't had too much hot weather down here yet this year so the johnny jump ups still look lush and, in a word, happy!

Photographed in Pat's garden in Medicine Hat, Alberta on June 19, 2022.

Windy and Cold

I had stopped to check my map as I was momentarily misplaced (i.e. lost).  Out of the corner of my eye I saw this pair of dogs come running over from the farm across the road.

This guy was shy at first but warmed up to me quickly once he knew I was friendly...as an added bonus he even cleaned my glasses.

His partner...

...shows how stingingly cold and windy it was that day.    

One last look.  As soon as I got back into the car they were on their way home. 

Photographed south of Cadillac, Saskatchewan on January 25, 2022.

Tough Old Bird (Dry Version)

Six hours after the rain stopped mama blue jay is back to her usual attractive self.

She lives here year round and has been in the neighbourhood for at least five years now.

I frequently find peanuts she's stashed in my balcony planters.  When her babies learn to fly she brings them over to teach them how to deal with a peanut-in-the-shell.  Mostly they scream at her and demand being fed bits of shelled peanuts.  Kids.  

Her twins from four years ago are inseparable...when one makes an appearance the other is sure to follow within moments.  When mama and the twins show up at the same time, she chases them away.  Her parenting skills are obviously top notch.

Her and her kids are always welcome out on the balcony.

Photographed in Medicine Hat, Alberta on June 20, 2022.

Tough Old Bird

Mama blue jay toughing out the rain storm today.

Photographed in Medicine Hat, Alberta on June 20, 2022.

Current Weather Conditions

Posted this a couple of years ago but still get a kick out of it.

Rock Weather...accurate and up to date weather conditions.

Photographed east of Maple Creek, Saskatchewan on May 11, 2022.