Sunset at the Martin sand dunes.

Willowbend Campground, Maple Creek, SK (1 star)

We headed out to the ranch of Ross and Connie Martin after lunch. They are old friends of ours who we got to know in the 70's through Alf Poulter. We spent a few hours talking about old times and lives we have led. After a very nice steak supper we went out to feed the cats (there are least six of them running around), then we looked at their new home (one of their sons is moving into their old house).

We then drove north and east into their land, ending up at what they call Martin's Sand Dunes. The area is similar to the sand dunes further north towards Leader. Absolutely beautiful country; the photos do not do it justice.

It was getting late, past sunset, as we worked our way out of the pasture and headed back towards the ranch. On the way, we diverted into one of their other pastures to feed the horses. What a nice experience, feeding horses in the middle of a pasture in near total darkness. A wonderful experience.

Lee dropped me off at the Maple Creek Celebration Quilt Show shortly after 10 a.m. Yes, sleeping in does not happen on a quilt show day - a quilter has priorities! There are some spectacular quilts that I will have to come back to view again tomorrow.

After our quick home made pita chip lunch we headed out to 'the Ranch'. What a wonderful visit with Connie and Ross. We caught up on all the changes in our worlds, talk just didn't stop. We had a tour of their new home which is almost ready to be lived in, some choices for colouring, curtains, and a couple of prior decisions to be dealt with. Their views of the prairie are spectacular. Connie's already looking forward to the craft/sewing space. I can relate.

All the cats are outdoor aka barn cats who added a new member as a little black stray joined them last night. On the farm, there is always room for one more. We talked about the mouse population being under control. Speaking of which, when we got back to the Schooner there was a little 'prezzy' on the floor. A mouse had found its way into the Schooner and Hobbes has his way of showing the critter is not welcome. Yes, Hobbes got lots of hugs and treats.

It is very scary to be driving across the raw prairie, with its dips and rises, as the sun is setting and shadows lengthening. And then to feed the horses in the dark - WHOA!