This week we are being treated to another guest column by our Toronto-based son, James Harbeck, writer, editor, linguist and photographer — and webmaster for these columns. He loves Cochrane’s vistas and makes sure he has his cameras with him whenever he comes for a visit.
I GREW UP IN the Bow Valley west of Calgary, and so I grew up in a land of vistas.
From the broad farmlands and ranchlands, the valleys and benchlands, I could see the hilltops and mountains in the distance. And from the tops of hills and mountains I could see the farmlands, ranchlands, parklands, and rivers stretching below.
Vistas. The word “vista” is from Italian – it means “seen,” as in “I have seen it.” And I have, and it is all the landscape of my memories.
Now I live on a high floor in a tower in downtown Toronto, so I have substitute vistas: something above the horizon – the tall buildings stand in for mountains – and something spreading below me – Toronto harbour instead of the sweep of Alberta.
But I am always glad to come back when I can, and visit my parents in Cochrane and refresh the sights of my memories. I can walk the trail along the river to the edge of town, or climb the hill above the Cochrane RancheHouse, and my eyes will trace the vistas I am glad to see once again.
THANKS, JAMES, for inviting us to see Cochrane’s vistas through your eyes and heart. — Dad
© 2020 James C. Harbeck