Gratitude Monday --The Day We Have

We took a drive yesterday.
Our original intent was to have a look at the Brazeau Dam about 60 miles away with the real point being a hope to see wildlife, such as owls, on the way.
We left before 8 a.m and took with us a lunch to enjoy somewhere as we intended to take our time.
It was early when we were done with the dam and we hadn't seen anything so we decided to go a bit farther and check out the Elk River campground.
This meant going mountainward on a gravel road and that meant a greater likelihood of wild things.
I got to see an open industrial camp that was on the way called the Pecos Inn. I was grateful for this because when my husband was driving truck he'd  had to stay there a few times and I'd been curious.
Open camp means that various companies can use it as well as the general public if there's room.  If we'd wanted to we could have gone in and bought a meal.
We were headed toward the Forestry Truck Road which would take us back to Nordegg, Highway 11, and then home.
But it was still early and a nice day. We'd packed food. We started with a full tank of gas. Mike suggested instead of turning south toward home that we turn north, go to Jasper, and loop home on the Parkway.
We did.
My first thought was to just go home, but then I thought: why?
Home had nothing compelling to offer other than a possible afternoon nap. Exploring is better, and this was a grand opportunity to do it.
Yesterday does not offer a second shot.
Tomorrow is a theory.
Now is what we have.
Now is what we work with.
We turned north and I am so grateful we did. We saw plenty of wildlife including, but not restricted to, a magnificent mountain goat and an equally magnificent bull elk.
I try to focus on the now in life. Yes, one must prepare for the future, but at no point should one ignore living today.
Yesterday we took the day as it was offered and used it to the best of our abilities.
For that I am grateful.

Lunch at Watson Creek. A relaxing break in a wonderful day.