The black sand beach along the Athabaska River is a serene place to write and reflect upon our week-long escape. My faithful black-and-white companion sits at my feet. The water is fast and loud. Against the river’s edge, small waves kiss the sand. There are two peaks in the distance obscured by a veil of gray smoke. I’m unsure of where the forests are burning. Thinking about it makes my heart feel heavy. My eyes are stinging and my throat is dry.
A chimney formation at the saddle of Sentinel Pass. Tami Ellis
