Alberta will beat the floods

I am sure of this because having spent a lot of time in Alberta, mostly Canmore and Calgary, especially in my year before coming over to Europe, I can completely and honestly say that I have felt the biggest sense of community EVER throughout Alberta. They are a beautiful and warm population of people who work hard and want to grow and maintain their community and province.

Many people have negative things to say about Alberta because of their involvement in the Oil and Gas industry, and yes, I have experienced those harsh characters with dollar signs in their eyes, however they forget about the other side - the people who have lived there for years. The real Albertan locals. The cowboys, the mountaineers, the skiers, hikers and farmers. The people who moved there when it was a western province with small cities. Yes, the boom has attracted a lot of negative attention, but it has also attracted an amazing group of young and motivated people with a desire to work hard and play hard. 

My time in Alberta has allowed me to experience a lot of moments that many communities should dream of. The togetherness and pride, the support and drive. The Folk Fest's (Calgary, Canmore and Edmonton), great cafes (The Purple Perk, Rocky Mountain Bagel and Communitea), Yoga studios (Canmore Hot Yoga, Bikram Calgary South and Yoga Santosha), restaurants (Tapas, Famoso and Mercato), amazing Vegetarian Restaurants (the Coup, Nourish and Padmanadi), and of course, the famous Calgary Stampede. I think it was easier to list off amazing places in Alberta than anywhere else I have been. 

Booming cities with mountains just around the corner. Young and inspired people with the locals maintaining the West Coast-ness. Opportunities and Adventure. And I can't forget the incredible amount of wildlife. 

I write this with my heart pouring out to the communities under water and the people who have lost their homes, businesses and belongings, and to those who have even lost family members. I am sad for you all but I know, more than ever, that if any community can pull through, it is you. 

My heart is with you and I hope to be back soon.

Pippa