A Working Western Vacation–Summer 2017

The goal was simple enough: visit with the kids in Alberta, play some golf, then spend time with family and friends in BC. And as always, in your mind’s eye you picture the time as an idyllic venture that is filled with sunshine, relaxation, and happy gatherings. Of course, vacations rarely turn out that way.

And so early on in the trip, my two millennials led me on a climb up Mt. Rundle in the Alberta Rockies, where I found myself perched on the side of a treacherous rock ledge about 9000 feet above sea level, with a death grip on the one piece of rock that would ensure I avoid a very swift voyage down a very unagreeable slope. They literally talked me off that ledge. “Come on Mom…you can do this.” So, I reluctantly released my grip and made the summit. The view was worth the sheer terror, but I may have acquired a slight case of acrophobia as a result.  

Then there was family golf day, when I was riding in a cart with my 22-year-old daughter. Not an abundantly cautious young woman, she decided to accelerate down a significantly steep hill. We were flying.

“No worries, Mom. The automatic governor will come on.” she said.

Well, eventually it did kick in, causing an epic spin out that would be the envy of any NASCAR race, tossing Mads out of the cart in the process. It was the first time I ever played with someone who finished their nine with a double bogie and a horrific bit of road rash.

The adventure continued, and we headed up to Powell Lake up the coast of British Columbia, guests of my husband’s sister. Her cabin was a bit on the rustic side, with no electricity and no internet. Oh, and there was one bathroom between 6 adults. Being last to arrive we were sleeping outside in a tent, on an air mattress that was so firm that if one person sat on their side the other person catapulted off entirely. Later we discovered the tent was not waterproof… leading to a soggy, late night relocation back into the main cabin. Lake Powell was stunning with warm, pristine water – I couldn’t stop swimming as it helped me maintain sanity.  But, by the second day I could no longer lift my arms.  

That was just the first half of the trip! Memories of the highs and lows in life keep us going and that is a gift indeed.

Meg Soper is a motivational humorist speaker who can help you learn to take on daily stressors, get inspired to reach your goals, and laugh along the journey. Get in touch with Meg today!

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