But winter holds a magic all of its own. The tall spruce trees are blanketed with a soft covering of white down, sparkling and gleaming in the sunshine. They wave their arms to the music of the winds brushing through the hollows and it is truly ephemeral in its magnificence. The dogs love to run and explore off the trails, checking for signs of rabbits and mice, with their noses stuffed in holes on the ground. They always know exactly where they are and exactly where they should be. There are wild animals in the forest, from porcupines to cougars and bears, but they do not want confrontation with so many large dogs, so they remain hidden out of sight, not looking for a fight. In winter, trudging the deep snow, already almost a foot in some places, is so difficult, but light snowshoes make the walk much easier. How fortunate to be here in the northwestern part of Alberta, in the midst of the woods and the glory of the land. Priceless!