Anyone who invites nature and wildlife into their life will experience a world full of mystery, beauty, and “take your breath away” moments. And the entertainment is free, 24 hours a day.

Do you have favorite childhood memories? Many adults have fond memories of birthday parties, Christmas celebrations, first kiss. Me, my favorite memories are when my mother took my siblings and me for nature walks. The walks were usually very long and on a barely visible trail in a dense forest. We trusted her completely. My brothers and I continued with our sibling rivalry, chasing and pushing buttons. Who was going to find the best rock? How high could he climb? Did she forget the mustard?

Arriving at the North Saskatchewan River, we built a bonfire. Once the flames had reduced to hot coals, we placed our potatoes within the makeshift oven. Satisfied we could roam free, each found his/her own path.

The sun was high and hot. The river’s breadth in places appeared like a small lake. In fact, when it flooded, I had learned how to swim in the warm backwashes. At the river’s shore, there was a soft murmuring. The river enticed a closer look. For good reason our mother warned us to stay out of the river. For a change, we listened to her rules.

The Saskatchewan moved with swift determination. The lack of rapids had lured my mother on one occasion to dive off a ferry for a swim. She nearly drowned. An undertow caught her and dealt a punishing struggle for survival.

First objective was to go scouting for interesting rocks. If we climbed the high banks we’d find beautiful ammonite fossils. Shells shone with vibrant, iridescent colors seen in the gemstone ammonite, which can display a full spectrum of reds, greens, yellows, blues, and purples. Closer to the river, we discovered a variety of leaf fossils. Some smaller ones we carried home.

After a few hours, we eventually found each other and decided it was time for our rustic but delicious baked spuds. With some wieners on green twigs and marshmallows, our meal was complete.

I remember when we finally headed home, walking together, quiet. The day’s magic became sealed within the heart and soul. The day had been a blessing, filled with unforgettable memories that would heal us in later years.