Greg is the master tapper here and he is ready for some serious Maple Syrup.  March 8 2010 – Northern Edge Algonquin – South River, Ontario

These wolves are feeding on a deer near the Algonquin Park visitor centre.  It is interesting that the dominant wolf is enjoying his solitary meal while the others watch and wait their turn.   It’s interesting to watch the second dominant wolf confirm his place with one other wolf at right.

Our Wolf Howl Canoe Trips in Algonquin Park give guests an opportunity to experience the spine tingling howls of the Nahma Lake wolf pack.

As the heart of winter beats with each snowflake that falls from the sky I cannot help but feel the inner stillness and peace that this season brings.   A time to slow down and search within ourselves for those things that truly make our heart sing.    What is it in our lives that fuelthat sacred fire that burns deep at our core?    Are we tending and feeding that fire with ‘wood’ that is nourishing and makes the flame grow brighter and stronger?    In this time of introspection we can contemplate the past year while getting ready for the new beginnings that lie ahead.    I like to envision myself as a seed lying dormant beneath the protection of the frozen snow.   Waiting for the just the right time to sprout and grow towards the sun as the seasons turn.    Inside of these seeds is the knowledge and wisdom of countless generations that have come before.     We too hold this vastness of ancient knowledge within each of us. It is waiting in dormancy for just the right time to sprout and grow as long as we provide the right environment and conditions for that seed to flourish.  

As I ski across the frozen lake under the glistening stars away from the Edge I am overwhelmed by the feeling of gratitude and thankfulness.     Gratitude for all those that have come before and so very thankful to be alive and healthy inside this moment.     The ice groans and echoes under my feet as I glide across the frozen water that has ‘cradled’ our canoes so many times.     My mind flashes to the countless trips that have come and gone from this place into the beautiful landscapes of Algonquin Park.    I think ahead to the many adventures that will come this year and the many new faces that will forever be etched in my mind and heart.      An owl calls from the distance and brings me back into this special moment in the middle of this frozen landscape.      At this time of year I find myself dreaming ahead to the coming paddling season as we prepare and plan for each of our unique trips.    Who will come with us, what will we see and experience and how will our lives change from our interaction with the natural world?     Each time I venture into the wilderness I learn a little more not only about the natural world, but also about myself and how I can affect a positive change in this world we live in.     It is said that in the purity of the wilderness we will find all that we search for.    Right now, in the solitude and serenity of this moment, my heart beats in unison with that of the Earth.   My fire burns bright as a smile curls across my face and the words ‘Thank You’ flow from my whole being.  

In Light

Alexis Burnett

Every day presents a new opportunity to rise and make a difference for your community.  But sometimes we need a little spark to start the fire.

Where does your spark come from?

Step Outside

Today, mine came when I strapped on my skis and headed out into winter under a bright blue sky.  It was a breathtaking 30 minutes where I let go of all the worries, deadlines, projects, and people in my life and took time for myself.  Regardless of the excitement I feel when I browse the Web, read blog posts, attend conferences or make presentations I connect more authentically to the people and projects in my life when take time to unplug and reconnect by listening to that quiet voice inside.  When I put myself first, I have more patience and the ability to let go of my ego and take the time to pay attention and truly listen to others.  For me, that comes when I step outside and explore the world around me.

It can be a challenge to break old habits and and take the time for yourself.  It may be perceived by others as putting your needs in front of others out of self-interest.  But in fact, if you can break through the inertia of procrastination and commit to giving yourself the time others may notice that you are much more present, peaceful and in touch with your humanity.

Engage with others

Another thing that inspires me is conversation.  Real conversation.  I often read twitter posts and stories by others, and write my own, but my absolute favourite thing is one-on-one conversations by telephone, (skype) or in person about things you and I are interested in.   Comments on blog posts are nice, but meeting people who are passionate about what they do and bouncing ideas off one another is left me truly inspired.  Indeed conversational relationships with people sharing ideas (without a focus on outcome) has led to the most inspiring long term relationships and the most inspiring projects I’ve ever been involved in.

It’s your turn

• What are you going to do today for yourself?  Stop procrastinating and take time to tend to yourself every day, not just on holidays or vacations.  Do something you love.  What are you passionate about?
• Make an unexpected phone call.  Ask someone you follow on Twitter to have a chat or invite a Facebook or LinkedIn friend for a conversation.

Keep the fire burning.

Special thanks to my twitterati for contributing their ideas for today’s blog post in one word.  Heck, why don’t you invite one of them for a conversation?

• @LarryChiang Unplugged
• @SmallbonesShop Humanity. Community. Self-interest. Ego.
• @nickwynja Challenge
• @hjortur breathtaking!
• @alexbainbridge procrastination. unexpected. telephone.
• @wendyperrin Authenticity
• @SeattleMaven Passion

I knew from the moment I visited the Northern Edge back in 2003 with my Eco-tourism class that I wanted to be a part of this team, and I was lucky enough to make that dream a reality after graduation that year.

My experience being here has been nothing but pleasurable and I’ve enjoyed every day coming in to work at this amazing place (that’s a rare commodity these days, and I consider myself so lucky to truly say it’s been an wonderful 6 years together with you).

Throughout life’s experiences I’ve found my true passion, and photographing people’s most precious times in their lives has brought me so much joy, so it’s time to grow my love and continue down this path as wMac photography.

The people that make the Northern Edge Algonquin tick have come to be like a family to me, this is why I won’t be leaving in a sense. It’s like a second home to me and I’ll be part of it’s community in some way or another for years to come I’m sure.

Thank you to all the wonderful friends and clients I’ve met, what a remarkable place I’ve had the privilege of being a part of, and I’ll truly miss it!

Wendy xoxo

Okay, so Kevin Costnar ran with wolves, yesterday I went for a ski around the lake hot on the trail of a wolf. Wrapping the shoreline and then heading for a while down it was interesting to see where the wolf stopped and sniffed and pawed at the snow from time to time. He seemed to pay no attention to the fox tracks that had been made the day before.

Here is what you might expect to see on a visit to Algonquin Park. Although you won’t see all of these wildlife snippets on any one trip, over the years I’ve had the privilege of witnessing all of these and more, right from our home in the northwest corner of Algonquin Park.

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Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season. Enjoy our updated newsletter!
Edge Insider Dec2009

Here at The Edge we are welcoming the snowflakes and looking forward to the freeze-up to explore our Winter wonderland with you!

a peaceful winter memory

The new design integrates our social media in a clear distinct way and invites guests to share their finds on Facebook and Twitter.  We’ve also brought a great focus to our photo library which has always been full of amazing shots shared by and with our staff and guests.

I hope you’ll like what you see at http://www.NorthernEdgeAlgonquin.com