The great people of Viking, AB

Last week, we had the pleasure of visiting the town of Viking, Alberta - and meeting some more fine Prairie people. They invited me to talk specifically about the inspiring Never Leave Your Wingman book but all of our books were showcased and much appreciated (as evidenced by the purchases after the talk).

Here's a photo story of our time in Viking:

                       This beautiful mural is painted on a store on Main Street, Viking, AB.

 

 

 

Various businesses, including the local newspaper, were splashed with pink to support the Wild Pink Yonder trail riders - who were coming to town a few days later, raising money for breast cancer research.

 

 

 

My talk was held in the Viking Station Teahouse, a train station that was beautifully renovated to become a tea room and home for the local arts community. (I only had to stop talking once as a train horn blasted in the background outside these windows.)

 

 

Here, I am sure I am saying something profound and wildly amusing!

 

                  We enjoyed viewing the work of local artists, of which trolls were a common theme.

And here we are at the entrance to Troll Park. Note the elaborate head gear we're wearing. More on that later.

 

 

Troll Mountain. Do not climb on it, says the sign.

 

 

 

Three Billy Goats Gruff...

 

 

A Viking longship, of course.

 

 

Ah yes... the Viking helmets. The town of Viking hosted a group that reenacted the Vikings' arrival in North America. The fancy helmets above are some of those used to help the town celebrate its Norwegian history. Our hostess Sylvia Hoffman kindly offered us these helmets to bring home to our grandsons. The hats were happily and humourously worn at the next family gathering!

 

P.S. Did you know that the everyday Viking helmets did not have horns? Face plates, yes - but horns, no.

P.S.S. A special thank-you to Sylvia Hoffman for inviting us. From The Weekly Review (Viking, Alberta) August 21 issue:  'Hoffman says, "We became aware of Deana last year and have placed several of her books in the library. I liked the idea of promoting her books because they are about Canadians and are well written." '