Karen Brinkman is originally from Eastern Canada. She has lived most of her adult life in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains near Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada. She enjoys life on the land with her family and operates the farm-based agritourism business KB Trails in Clearwater County.

Karen is passionate about supporting children’s mental health through relaxation, mindfulness, and storytelling. She has worked as a mental health nurse since 1982 in hospitals, schools, and community settings. Karen holds qualifications in psychiatric nursing, registered nursing, and leadership, including a master`s degree from Royal Roads University, where she explored the use of story in building relationships.

Karen gratefully acknowledges the First Nations schools and communities where she has worked, learned and played for many years. The relationships and teachings shared by children, families, Elders, and the land are woven into the heart of Karen’s work and continue to guide her life.

Most of the photographs throughout this website were taken by Karen. The images reflect places and moments from her own life on the land, where she has captured hearts in nature. A student once asked Karen why she searched for hearts. Karen`s reply: “Finding hearts in nature makes my own heart smile, and all hearts matter”.